The Indian government has announced significant revisions to the Agnipath scheme, introducing a two-year extension for Agniveers and increasing their monthly remuneration. This decision, approved by the Union Cabinet on November 4, follows an assessment of Agniveers' performance and the operational needs of the armed forces.
Extended Service and Enhanced Pay for Agniveers
Under the revised scheme, Agniveers who opt for the newly approved two-year extension will receive an enhanced fixed monthly pay package. In the first year of this extended tour of duty (their fifth year of service overall), they will be paid ₹43,500. This will increase to ₹47,500 in the second year (their sixth year of service), in addition to applicable allowances.
Air Vice Marshal Shekhar Yadav, Senior Officer In-charge Administration at the Indian Air Force's Eastern Air Command, confirmed these changes. He stated that the extension applies to the 75% of Agniveers who are not absorbed into the regular cadre after their initial four-year tenure.
Fresh Seva Nidhi Package and Re-enrollment Opportunity
The additional two-year engagement period also comes with a fresh Seva Nidhi package. During this time, Agniveers will contribute ₹3.28 lakh, while the government will contribute ₹7.64 lakh, totaling ₹10.92 lakh over the two years, excluding any interest.
Furthermore, all willing Agniveers who complete this second tour of duty will be offered another opportunity for enrollment in the regular cadre of the Indian defence forces. This selection will be subject to meeting objective criteria set by the forces.
"An objective assessment in terms of organisational requirement and operational efficiency was carried out. Based on the exceptional performance of Agniveers, the Indian defence forces recommended a 2nd tour of duty, which has been approved by the government," said Air Vice Marshal Shekhar Yadav.
The existing provision to absorb 25% of Agniveers into the regular forces after four years, based on merit, will continue unchanged. The Agnipath scheme, launched in 2022, aims to foster a younger profile within the Indian defence forces and offer youth an opportunity to serve the nation.
This extension is expected to benefit both the armed forces by retaining trained personnel and the Agniveers by providing them with more experience, enhanced skills, and a stronger financial foundation, enabling them to better choose their future career paths.