The Indian Army implemented the Agniveer recruitment plan in 2022, which was met with significant opposition in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Haryana. The main controversy of this plan revolves around the decision to make 25% of Agniveers permanently and release the remaining 75% after four years of service. This has raised concerns about the future of Agniveers after completing four years of service.
The Agniveer Plan: A Political Issue
In the general elections of 2024, the Agniveer plan became a major issue, especially in states where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led by Narendra Modi had to face a shortage of seats. Its coalition partner, particularly the Janata Dal (United) led by Nitish Kumar, expressed dissatisfaction with this plan and suggested some changes. The Indian Army also expressed a desire to make changes to some provisions of this plan and conducted a review and survey for potential improvements. Here we will discuss five major changes that the Indian Army wants to incorporate into this plan:
1. Increase in the Percentage of Agniveers to be recruited
The Indian Army wants to increase the number of Agniveers recruited after completing four years of service to up to 60-70%. Currently, the Indian Army recruits only 25% of Agniveers, while it releases the remaining 75% after they pay around 12 lakh rupees. The Army believes that maintaining a higher number of Agniveers will better utilize their expertise and training.
2. Extension of Service Period
The Army wants to extend the service period from four to seven to eight years. Several retired senior officers argue that it takes at least six to seven years to become a fully trained soldier according to the Army and its regimental system. In the current Agniveer system, the Army provides formal basic training for only nine months, while it assigns the rest of the training when the Agniveer joins the unit. Retired officers argue that once an Agniveer acquires expertise in a specific area within the regiment, the four-year period ends, and the Army releases them, potentially leading to future problems.
3. Increase in Recruitment Age in Technical Branches
Currently, Agniveers are recruited between the ages of 17 to 21.5 years. The Army is proposing to increase the age for recruitment in technical branches such as Signals, Air Defence, and Engineers to 23 years. Due to the technical nature of these branches, longer training periods are required. The Army believes that increasing the age limit will enhance the expertise and skills of Agniveers in these fields.
4. Assistance for Disability Compensation and Job Search after Service Period
The Army’s initiative extends to offering disability compensation to Agniveers incapacitated during training. Furthermore, advocating for the establishment of a dedicated professional agency is paramount. This agency would serve the crucial role of aiding Agniveers in securing employment post their service tenure. Such measures not only ensure financial stability for Agniveers but also affirm the nation’s commitment to their welfare, fostering a sense of security and continuity beyond their military service.
5. Bereavement Allowance
The proposal, outlined in the Financial Express report, strongly advises the inclusion of a bereavement allowance within the Agniveer plan. This compassionate provision aims to provide financial assistance to the families of deceased Agniveers, ensuring their economic stability during the challenging period of mourning. By offering support to those who have lost their loved ones in service to the nation, this allowance embodies a sense of gratitude and recognition for their sacrifices.
Conclusion
The proposed changes in the Agniveer plan have undergone meticulous consideration, aligning with the strategic objectives of the Indian Army while ensuring a sustainable career path for Agniveers. Incorporating these enhancements will bolster the Army’s operational effectiveness and empower Agniveers to pursue a more stable and secure future post-service. It is imperative for both the Indian Army and the government to collaboratively evaluate these suggestions and implement necessary measures to further refine and balance the Agniveer plan, thereby fostering greater cohesion and resilience within the military framework.
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