Agniveer: Retention Period, Age Limit May Rise As Armed Forces Review Scheme
The Indian armed forces are reviewing the Agnipath scheme, which recruits soldiers, airmen, and sailors for four years, to balance the need for technically skilled personnel with keeping the average age of soldiers low.
Following the impressive performance of Agniveers in Operation Sindoor in May, there is ongoing discussion about extending their retention period. According to sources quoted in The Indian Express, this step is being considered to leverage the training, experience, and expertise gained by Agniveers during their four-year tenure.
Potential Increase In Retention Rates
Initiated in 2022, the Agnipath scheme's first batch will complete its four-year service period by the end of 2026. Under current regulations, only 25% of Agniveers can be retained based on qualifications and organisational needs. However, discussions are underway to increase this percentage.
Reports suggest that retention rates could rise to 70-75% in infantry and combat units, 80% for specially trained personnel (air defence, signals, engineers), and even 100% for special forces. The selection for special forces takes place during initial training, though officials say efforts will be made to ensure that higher retention does not raise the average age of Agniveers. These considerations will be further discussed in the next Army Commanders' meeting before being submitted to the government for approval.
Post-Operation Sindoor, the Army has intensified efforts to incorporate new weapons, equipment, and modern technologies, which require trained personnel. Agniveers receive six months of basic training at regimental centres followed by three to six months of specialised training in their units. An officer noted that if trainees are selected within the first six months and then undergo three to six months of special training, Agniveers will be available for only about two to two-and-a-half years under the current plan. This significantly raises training costs. If trained personnel leave every four years, fresh recruits will have to be trained repeatedly, increasing the burden on the organisation and straining the limited pool of trainers.
How Will It Impact Navy And Air Force
Retention considerations extend to the Navy and Air Force as well. Last year, Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh commended the performance of Agniveers and indicated readiness to retain more than 25%. Similarly, the Navy is prepared to increase the retention of sailors after the first batch completes its four-year period.
Possible Increase In Maximum Recruitment Age
Earlier this year, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi mentioned ongoing efforts to grant Agniveers similar leave and facilities as regular soldiers in case of martyrdom. He also highlighted the need for technically skilled personnel, suggesting an increase in the maximum recruitment age from 21 to 23 years. Technically complex services require experienced and skilled individuals, prompting a reconsideration of the Agnipath scheme to better meet these demands.
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