Joining the Indian Army is not about getting a normal job, but taking the responsibility of sovereignty, honor and security of the nation on your shoulders. Every youth wearing army uniform represents the hopes not only of his family but of the entire country. In this spirit, the Central Government has made important changes regarding the future of the youth recruited in the Army under the Agneepath Scheme. To reduce the uncertainty about the future after four years of service, now 75 percent of the firefighters will be given the opportunity to serve for two additional years. After completing six years of service, they will get the opportunity to become regular soldiers on the basis of prescribed qualification and performance. This change has brought new hope for the fire fighters and additional possibilities to move ahead in military life.
The military power of any country is not made only by modern weapons, missiles and technology, but its real strength lies in those soldiers, who are ready to protect the country even in difficult circumstances. Youth power has always been important in the Indian Army. With changing times the nature of war is also changing. Now, along with traditional military capability, technical proficiency, ability to take rapid decisions, physical strength and mental toughness have also become equally essential. The Agneepath Plan was conceived keeping in mind this changing military requirement.
When the Agneepath scheme was implemented, there was a lot of discussion at the political and social level regarding its provisions. In particular, questions were raised over the arrangement of keeping only 25 percent of Agniveers in regular military service after four years of service and excluding the remaining 75 percent. Opposition parties criticized the government on this issue and apprehensions regarding future security also emerged among the youth. Protests took place at many places. At that time, supporters of the plan argued that this would youth the age structure of the army and create a new generation of trained youth. Whereas the critics were concerned about employment and stable future after four years.
With time the results of the plan started emerging. Agniveers received training, learned military discipline and performed various responsibilities. During this time, the army also got direct experience of his work, capabilities and behavior. Now, based on this experience, the government has made changes in the system and provided the option of additional two years of service. This is an indication that after implementing any scheme in the governance system, review of its results and necessary improvements are also important.
In this change, approved by the Union Cabinet under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the already prescribed system of 25 percent regular recruitment has been retained. The remaining 75 percent firefighters will be given the opportunity to serve for two additional years. After this, the youth willing to become regular soldiers will be evaluated on the basis of their ability, physical ability, discipline, morale and efficiency. Thus the Agniveers will get more time and an additional opportunity than before to prove their talent.
Chief of Defense Staff General NS Raja Subramani has also clarified that the performance of Agniveer has been assessed from time to time. Military leaders have had positive experiences with their assignments and training. According to him, criteria like physical fitness, morale, motivation and discipline will be important while selecting for regular service in the Army. This system is also important because permanent place in the army should not be given only on the basis of service period, but on the basis of merit and performance.
The economic aspect has also been given importance in the new system. There is a provision for Agniveer to get a monthly remuneration of Rs 43,500 in the fifth year and Rs 47,500 in the sixth year. Additional service will give them an opportunity to increase military experience along with economic benefits. If selected as a regular soldier, he will receive benefits related to military service as per rules.
The Union Home Minister has also assured about the future of Agniveer. It is important to convey the message of the government that the talent and training of the youth who contribute to the security of the country should be properly utilized. Instead of limiting Agniveers to just four years of service, giving them the opportunity to advance could be beneficial to both their self-confidence and military experience.
It is also important to understand that after completing six years, every Agniveer will not automatically become a regular soldier. For this, one will have to meet the prescribed selection process and eligibility criteria. But now they will have two opportunities to join regular military service. This is the most important aspect of this change.
In politics, differences of opinion on any plan are part of the democratic system. The job of the opposition is to raise questions on the policies of the government and the responsibility of the government is to answer those questions through its work and policy reforms. The amendment made in Agneepath scheme can be considered a part of this process. It is necessary to move beyond political accusations and focus on positive solutions on issues like the future of youth and national security.
Finally, a new path has now opened before the Agniveers. They have the possibility of getting the opportunity of long service in the army through their training, discipline and ability. The success of this decision of the government will depend on how transparent the selection process remains and how effectively the eligible youth get opportunities. Along with strengthening the security of the country, it is also necessary to respect the dreams of the youth. This change in Agneepath is a new beginning in this direction, where efforts are being made to take forward youth power, military experience and the spirit of national service.
Kantilal Mandot