First batch of Agniveers | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

The Passing Out Parade for the first batch of Agniveers took place at INS Chilka, marking a historic post-sunset ceremony. This event celebrated the completion of training for approximately 2600 Agniveers, including 273 women. Among this batch were participants from the Indian Navy Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path on January 26th this year. These Agniveers underwent a rigorous 16-week training program at INS Chilka, the premier training establishment for new sailors.

Overview of the Agnipath Scheme

Agnipath is a novel defence recruitment model designed to allow "patriotic and motivated" youth to serve in the armed forces for a period of four years. Recruitment will begin within 90 days, aiming to enlist 45,000-50,000 personnel below officer rank annually through a biannual process with a six-month interval. This year, approximately 46,000 young men and women are expected to be recruited as ‘Agniveers’. This scheme will become the sole method for recruiting soldiers into the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The enrolment process will be conducted through a centralized online system, complemented by special rallies and campus interviews at recognized technical institutes like Industrial Training Institutes and the National Skills Qualifications Framework. The selection process will be based on an all-India merit system.

Objectives of the Agnipath Scheme

The scheme aims to provide an opportunity for patriotic and motivated youth with the ‘Josh’ and ‘Jazba’ to join the Armed Forces. It seeks to reduce the average age profile of the Indian Armed Forces by approximately 4 to 5 years. Currently, the average age in the forces is 32 years, which is expected to decrease to 26 over six to seven years.

Benefits for the Youth

Upon completing the four-year service period, Agniveers will receive a one-time ‘Seva Nidhi’ package of Rs 11.71 lakhs, including accrued interest. They will also be covered by a Rs 48 lakh life insurance policy for the duration of their service. In case of death, the payout will exceed Rs 1 crore, including pay for the unserved tenure. The government will assist in rehabilitating soldiers who leave the services after four years, providing them with skill certificates and bridge courses.

• Future Ready Soldiers: The scheme will produce “future-ready” soldiers.
• Increased Employment Opportunities: It will boost employment prospects as the skills and experience acquired during the four-year service will make these soldiers employable in various fields.
• Higher Skilled Workforce: The economy will benefit from a higher-skilled workforce, leading to productivity gains and overall GDP growth.

Challenges Related to the Scheme

• Difficulty in Securing Another Job: The Agnipath scheme allows for the recruitment of about 45,000 soldiers into the Army, Navy, and Air Force on a four-year contract. After the contract, only 25% will be retained, leaving the rest to find new employment. The four-year service period may put them at a disadvantage compared to their peers in other career paths.
• No Pension Benefits: Agniveers will receive a one-time lump sum of just over Rs 11 lakhs at the end of their tenure but will not be entitled to pension benefits, making it essential for most to seek a second job to support themselves and their families.
• Potential Underutilization of Training: The armed forces may lose experienced soldiers after four years. Although these recruits will receive technical training to support ongoing operations, their departure could create a skills gap.

Conclusion

Despite some concerns, the Agnipath scheme holds potential for future employment for these youth, especially as India’s defence industry expands. The industry will benefit from having a pool of skilled and trained youth ready for employment, thus ensuring national security while providing career opportunities.