• UGI USER
  • Jun 26, 2024
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THE AGNIPATH SCHEME

Why in the news?

  • The Agnipath scheme, introduced in June 2022, has sparked significant discussion post-general elections.
  • Various political parties have raised concerns, prompting governmental deliberations.
 Source: KBK

Understanding Agnipath Scheme :

  • Launched in 2022, the Agnipath scheme is a central government initiative for armed forces recruitment.
  • It focuses on non-officer ranks, aiming to deploy younger, physically fit troops on four-year contracts.
  • The armed forces can select top performers for permanent enlistment as ‘Agniveers.’

Eligibility:

  • Candidates aged 17.5 to 21 years are eligible.
  • Women are eligible for Agnipath entry under the same age criteria.
  • Recruitment standards and rallies occur biannually.

Pay & Benefits for Agniveers:

  • Families receive Rs 1 crore and full pay if an Agniveer dies on duty (including the Seva Nidhi package).
  • Disability compensation can be up to Rs 44 lakh, based on the severity related to military service.
Agnipath contrasts with regular military service:

  • Unlike regular soldiers, Agniveers do not receive pensions upon retirement.
  • Only 25% of Agniveers who transition to permanent roles after four years are eligible for pension benefits, excluding their initial service period.
  • The scheme aims to reduce permanent force levels and decrease the defense pension burden, addressing a long-standing fiscal challenge for governments.