The Agnipath Scheme – A Pathway to Service and Skill Development

The Agnipath Scheme – A Pathway to Service and Skill Development

Context:

The Agnipath scheme introduced by the government aims to reform the defense policy by changing the recruitment process for the Indian armed forces.

• Under this scheme, young men and women, termed Agniveers, are recruited under a short-service manpower model.

Relevance:

GS – 2 (Government Policies & Interventions) GS – 3 (Growth & Development)

Prelims:

Agnipath Scheme and Benefits to Soldiers, Agniveer Army, Navy and Airforce

Mains Question:

Discuss the significance of the introduction of the Agnipath scheme. (150 words)

Key Highlights:

• While initial feedback on Agniveers has been positive, there are challenges ahead in integrating them into military units.
• Unit commanders must focus on psychological assimilation, unit cohesion, and character-building to ensure effective team players.
• Despite technological advancements, the human element remains crucial in combat situations.
• Introducing a psychological test during recruitment could aid in better grooming and assessment of Agniveers.

Dimensions of the Article:

• Introduction of Agnipath Scheme
• Eligibility Criteria
• Objectives
• Benefits for Agniveers
• Related Concerns
• Significance of the Scheme for the Country

Introduction of Agnipath Scheme

• The Agnipath scheme, introduced by the government, 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.
• The Agnipath Scheme 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.

Benefits for Agniveers

• Upon completion of their four-year service, Agniveers will receive a one-time ‘Seva Nidhi’ package amounting to Rs 11.71 lakhs, inclusive of accrued interest.
• Furthermore, they will be provided with a life insurance cover of Rs 48 lakhs for the duration of their service, with an enhanced payout in the event of death, exceeding Rs 1 crore, including pay for the unserved tenure.
• The government will also support soldiers transitioning out of service by offering skill certificates and bridge courses.

Related Concerns

• While initial feedback on Agniveers has been positive, there are challenges ahead in seamlessly integrating them into military units.
• 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.
• Despite concerns raised, the government is yet to take an official stand on certain aspects of the scheme.

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.

Way Forward and Conclusion:

• To address the challenges posed by the Agnipath scheme and ensure the effective integration of Agniveers into military units, unit commanders must focus on psychological assimilation, unit cohesion, and character-building.
• Furthermore, the government should consider introducing a psychological test during recruitment to better assess and groom Agniveers.