Agniveer Scheme: An Overview and Critical Analysis

What is the Agniveer scheme?

The Agniveer scheme, launched in June 2022, is designed to recruit young individuals aged between 17.5 to 21 years into the Indian armed forces for a duration of four years. Upon completion of their service, participants receive a certificate and a Seva Nidhi amounting to Rs 11.71 lakh. However, only 25% of the recruits are retained for longer service.

Main Criticisms of the Agniveer Scheme

Critics of the Agniveer scheme have raised several significant concerns:

• Seventy-five percent of recruits do not receive long-term benefits or gratuity.
• The four-year service duration is considered too short for meaningful career development.
• Many advocate for raising the upper age limit to 23 years to broaden recruitment opportunities.

Critical Analysis of the Scheme

A deeper examination of the Agniveer scheme reveals several shortcomings:

• Many argue that the scheme does not provide adequate long-term job security or benefits for the majority of recruits.
• The four-year service period is perceived as insufficient for building a stable career.
• Increasing the upper age limit to 23 is suggested to enhance opportunities for youth in the armed forces.

Government Actions to Address Concerns

In response to the criticisms, the government is actively considering various measures:

• Raising the recruitment age to 23 years.
• Increasing the retention rate for long-term service to 50%.
• Offering preference for government jobs and special educational programs for Agniveers.

Support for Non-retained Agniveers

The government has assured support for those Agniveers who are not retained:

• Preference in government job recruitment processes.
• A dedicated three-year skill-based bachelor’s degree program through IGNOU.
• Priority recruitment into the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Assam Rifles.

Significance of the Agniveer Scheme

This scheme plays a pivotal role in modernizing the armed forces by integrating young, tech-savvy recruits. Additionally, it aims to improve future employment prospects for those who serve on a short-term basis.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the primary objective of the Agniveer scheme?
Answer: The Agniveer scheme aims to recruit young individuals into the armed forces for four years, modernizing the military and enhancing job opportunities for youth.

Q2. How does the Seva Nidhi benefit Agniveers?
Answer: The Seva Nidhi provides Agniveers with Rs 11.71 lakh after their service, offering financial support for their future endeavors.

Q3. What are the main criticisms surrounding the scheme?
Answer: Critics highlight the lack of long-term benefits for 75% of recruits and the short service period, which they believe hinders career stability.

Q4. How is the government planning to improve the scheme?
Answer: The government is considering raising the recruitment age to 23 and increasing the retention rate to 50% for longer service.

Q5. What support is available for Agniveers not retained in service?
Answer: Agniveers not retained will receive job preference in government roles and access to special educational programs to enhance their skills.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the age limit for recruitment under the Agniveer scheme?
A) 17 to 21 years
B) 18 to 22 years
C) 19 to 23 years
D) 20 to 24 years
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: What is the primary financial benefit provided to Agniveers after four years?
A) Rs 5 lakh
B) Rs 11.71 lakh
C) Rs 15 lakh
D) Rs 10 lakh
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What percentage of Agniveers are retained for longer service?
A) 50%
B) 25%
C) 10%
D) 75%
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which program is offered to Agniveers for skill development?
A) IGNOU diploma program
B) Three-year skill-based bachelor’s degree
C) Online certification course
D) Technical training program
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is a major criticism of the Agniveer scheme?
A) Too many recruits
B) Lack of long-term benefits
C) Insufficient training
D) Too many age restrictions
Correct Answer: B

Question 6: How long is the service duration for Agniveers?
A) 2 years
B) 3 years
C) 4 years
D) 5 years
Correct Answer: C