Review Agnipath Scheme

Review Agnipath Scheme

Context:

Recently, two BJP allies, Janata Dal (U) and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), have called for a review of the Agnipath scheme for short-term recruitments to the armed forces, citing dissatisfaction among certain sections.

• Meanwhile, the importance of a caste-based census, referencing the Bihar government’s initiative was put forward, suggesting that it is an urgent need supported by multiple parties.

Relevance:

GS-02 (Government policies and interventions)

 Agnipath Scheme

• The Agnipath scheme marks a significant reform in defense policy by altering the recruitment process for the Indian armed forces.
• Young men and women, termed Agniveers, are recruited under this scheme, which operates on a short-service manpower model.
• It offers young individuals to contribute to the Armed Forces for a duration of four years.
• Termed as “Agniveers,” these youth will have the opportunity to enlist in the army for a short stint. With an annual recruitment target ranging from 45,000 to 50,000 soldiers, most participants will exit the service after the stipulated four-year period.
• Following this term, only 25% of the cohort will be re-enlisted into their respective services for an extended period of 15 years.

Eligibility Criteria

• This scheme is exclusively designed for personnel below officer ranks, excluding those who enter the forces as commissioned officers, the highest-ranking officials within the army.
• Candidates aged between 17.5 and 23 years are eligible to apply.

Objectives

• The primary aim of the Agnipath Scheme is to provide an avenue for motivated youth to serve in the Armed Forces, fostering a spirit of enthusiasm and commitment.
• Additionally, it seeks to reduce the average age profile of the Indian Armed Forces by approximately 4 to 5 years, envisioning a transition from the current average age of 32 years to 26 years within the next six to seven years.

Related Concerns

• Challenges such as difficulty in securing alternative employment after the four-year term and the absence of pension benefits raise concerns among participants.
• Additionally, the potential underutilization of training received during the service period may result in a loss of experienced personnel within the Armed Forces.

Significance of the Scheme for the Country

• The Agnipath Scheme aims to cultivate “future-ready” soldiers while simultaneously increasing employment opportunities.
• By leveraging the skills and experience gained during their service, participants can explore diverse fields of employment, contributing to a higher-skilled workforce and fostering economic growth.