Agneepath Scheme Faces Its First Major Test This Year: How Many Will Get Employment?

The Agneepath scheme is set for its first real test later this year as the first batch of Agniveers completes their four-year tenure. The plan, introduced to modernize recruitment in the armed forces, allows only 25% of Agniveers to be retained permanently, while the remaining 75% exit the services. The question now is: how many of them will find employment after completing their term?

Background
The issue came into sharper focus after opposition leader Rahul Gandhi cited former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane’s unpublished book in Parliament, raising questions about the scheme. Political debates aside, the practical evaluation of the Agneepath scheme begins when the first batch of Agniveers finishes their service.

The Navy will be the first to have its Agniveers complete their tenure this November, totaling around 2,600 personnel. The Army and Air Force will follow with their first batches next year.

Employment Prospects
Currently, only 25% of Agniveers are slated to become permanent. The remaining 75% will exit, marking the true “Agneepath test.” The government claims that all necessary arrangements are in place to support them. Several state governments and the CAPFs have reserved quotas for Agniveers in police recruitment.

However, military officials have recommended a higher retention rate—ranging from 40% to 50%, and in some cases up to 70%—to ensure adequate job security for these youth. Whether the government will consider increasing the retention percentage beyond 25% remains to be seen.

Potential Policy Adjustments
After the first batch exits, discussions may take place on whether changes to the scheme are necessary. While the government has indicated that the four-year service term will not be extended, there is scope to adjust retention rates to avoid future legal challenges. Implementing major changes only after the first batch could trigger court cases, adding to the Ministry of Defence’s existing legal battles.

For Agniveers who die in service or are disabled, the armed forces have recommended that they and their families receive support equivalent to that of regular soldiers. This issue remains pending.

While political debates continue around the Agneepath scheme, its real evaluation—the ability of the scheme to provide meaningful employment and secure futures for exiting Agniveers—is approaching fast.