In June, the Government dismissed reports that the Agnipath Scheme had been relaunched, describing the social media message as fake and clarifying that no such decision had been taken.
A #fake WhatsApp message claims that the Agnipath Scheme has been re-launched as 'Sainik Saman Scheme' after review with several changes including duty period being extended to 7 years, 60% permanent staff & increased income#PIBFactCheck
✔️GOI has taken no such decision pic.twitter.com/1a3zmuVjfk
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) June 16, 2024
On June 2, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan highlighted the Agnipath scheme as a crucial step towards maintaining a youthful profile of the three services. This scheme, he emphasised, is a significant reform in the context of nation-building.
In his address to the Agniveers, the CDS said the “implementation of the ‘Agnipath scheme has been one of the major reforms towards maintaining a youthful profile in the services and nation building by providing skilled, disciplined and motivated youth,” the defence ministry said.
On June 14, 2022, the Government launched the Agnipath recruitment scheme to bring in younger personnel for the military services. The scheme aims to recruit young people aged between 17.5 and 21 years for a period of four years. There’s also a provision to keep 25 per cent of them for an additional 15 years. Those selected will serve as Agniveers for four years. Depending on the needs of the Armed Forces and their policies, Agniveers who complete their term may have the chance to join the permanent cadre. Up to 25 per cent of Agniveers may be chosen to join the Armed Forces as regular members.
