Assam Rifles: Center to give priority to 'Agniveers' for Paramilitary Forces

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• Jun 15, 2022 | Poonam Nath

Indian youngsters will be allowed to serve in the armed forces, as Agniveer said, Rajnath Singh.

Digital Desk: Union home minister Amit Shah announced on Wednesday, a day after the government announced the Agnipath recruitment scheme for the defence forces, that his ministry has decided to give priority to 'Agniveers' who have completed four years under the 'Agnipath' scheme in the recruitment of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Assam Rifles. 

According to the home minister, the scheme is a "transformative initiative" to increase "employment opportunities."

As per Shah's statement, "With this decision made by the Home Ministry under Prime Minister Modi's guidance, the youth trained under the 'Agnipath' scheme will be able to contribute to the country's service and security. On this decision, detailed planning has begun."

Shah also discussed the Agnipath recruitment scheme while applauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheme to transform the armed forces.

"Prime Minister Modi Ji's Agnipath scheme is a visionary and welcome decision for the bright future of youth. In this regard, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced today that Agniveers who have completed four years under this scheme would be given priority in the recruitment of CAPFs and Assam Rifles. "Shah stated this in a series of Hindi tweets.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the Agnipath scheme, which will allow Indian youth to serve in the armed forces as Agniveers.

After four years of service, the 'Agniveers' will be given a good pay package and an exit retirement package. Only 25% of Agniveers will be retained or re-enlisted in the regular cadre after four years based on merit, willingness, and medical fitness.

This move is intended to reduce the escalating salary and pension bills, despite criticism that it will harm the professionalism, military ethos, and fighting spirit of the over 14-lakh strong armed forces.

'Agnipath' is a national merit-based recruitment programme for soldiers, airmen, and sailors. The scheme allows young people to serve in the regular cadre of the armed forces.

Those who are retained will serve another 15 years. The first four years of service under a contract are unlikely to be considered when determining final pensionary benefits. 

The remaining 75% of 'Agniveers' will be demobilised, with an exit or "Seva Nidhi" package worth Rs 11-12 lakh, partially funded by their monthly contributions and skill certificates and bank loans to help them start new careers.

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