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

Introduction

The first group of Agniveers recently had their Passing Out Parade at INS Chilka. This ceremony, unique for being held after sunset, celebrated the training completion of around 2600 Agniveers, including 273 women. Among them were those who took part in the Indian Navy Republic Day parade on January 26 this year. These Agniveers underwent 16 weeks of training at INS Chilka, which is the main training place for sailor induction.

Here's what the Agnipath scheme entails

• Agnipath introduces a new way of recruiting for defense, allowing enthusiastic and patriotic youth to serve in the armed forces for four years.
• Recruitment will start within the next three months.
• The plan is to recruit approximately 45,000-50,000 personnel each year for the three services, twice a year with a six-month gap.
• This year, the aim is to bring in around 46,000 young men and women under the Agnipath scheme.
• Soldiers recruited through Agnipath will be called 'Agniveers'.
• This scheme becomes the exclusive method for enlisting soldiers in the Armed Forces, Indian Navy, and Air Force.
• Enrollment of Agniveers in all three services will happen through a centralized online system, with special events like rallies and interviews at recognized technical institutes such as Industrial Training Institutes and the National Skills Qualifications Framework. The selection process will be based on all-India merit.

The scheme's goals are:

• To provide a chance for motivated and patriotic youth to join the Armed Forces.
• To lower the average age of the Indian Armed Forces by about 4 to 5 years.
• The scheme envisions reducing the current average age of 32 to 26 within six to seven years.

Benefits for the youth:

• After completing the four-year service, Agniveers will receive a one-time 'Seva Nidhi' package of Rs 11.71 lakhs, including interest.
• They will also have a life insurance coverage of Rs 48 lakhs for the four years.
• In case of death, the payout will be over Rs 1 crore, including pay for the remaining tenure.
• The government will assist in rehabilitating soldiers who leave the services after four years, offering skill certificates and bridge courses.

Other advantages of the scheme:

• Creating soldiers prepared for the future.
• Increasing employment opportunities, as the skills gained during the four years will lead to jobs in various fields.
• Contributing to a more skilled workforce, benefiting the economy in terms of productivity gain and GDP growth.

Challenges associated with the scheme:

• Difficulty in finding another job: The Agnipath scheme recruits about 45,000 soldiers for the Army, Navy, and Air Force on a four-year contract. After the contract ends, only 25% will stay, and the rest will leave. This could make it hard for them to secure other jobs, leaving them behind their peers.
• Lack of pension benefits: Those recruited under Agnipath will receive a lump sum of slightly more than Rs 11 lakhs at the end of their four-year tenure, but they won't get any pension benefits. Most will need a second job to support themselves and their families.
• Underutilized training: The forces will lose experienced soldiers. Although those joining the military will undergo technical training to support ongoing operations, these individuals will leave after four years, potentially leading to a skills gap.

Conclusion

In conclusion, despite concerns, there's potential for future employment for these young individuals, given the growing defense industry in India. This will provide well-skilled youth for jobs, ensuring both national security and future opportunities.