Consider the following statements about the ‘Agniveer’ scheme for Indi

Consider the following statements about the ‘Agniveer’ scheme for Indian youth to serve in the armed forces :

  • 1. Aspirants will be appointed on the contract basis for a period of four years.
  • 2. Young people in the age group of 18-22 years can join.
  • 3. The age limit was later increased to 23 years for the first batch of the aspirants.
  • 4. Up to 20% of each batch will be enrolled as regular cadre.

Which of the above statements are not correct?

1 and 2
2 and 3
1 and 4
2 and 4
This question was previously asked in
UPSC Combined Section Officer – 2019-20
The correct option is D. Statements 2 and 4 are not correct about the ‘Agniveer’ scheme (Agnipath scheme).
– The Agnipath scheme recruits personnel below the rank of commissioned officers into the three services of the Indian Armed Forces. Recruits under this scheme are known as ‘Agniveers’.
– Statement 1: Aspirants will be appointed on the contract basis for a period of four years. This is correct. Agniveers are enrolled for a service period of four years, which includes training period.
– Statement 2: Young people in the age group of 18-22 years can join. This is incorrect. The eligible age range for prospective Agniveers is 17.5 years to 21 years.
– Statement 3: The age limit was later increased to 23 years for the first batch of the aspirants. This is correct. Due to protests and considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on recruitment, the government announced a one-time relaxation in the upper age limit to 23 years for the recruitment cycle of 2022.
– Statement 4: Up to 20% of each batch will be enrolled as regular cadre. This is incorrect. After the completion of the four-year tenure, up to 25% of each batch of Agniveers may be absorbed into the regular cadre based on organizational requirements and their performance during the four years.
The Agnipath scheme aims to create a youthful profile of the Armed Forces and provides an opportunity for youth to serve the country. Those not absorbed into the regular cadre after four years will receive a ‘Seva Nidhi’ package and skills certifications to help them in civilian life.