Agneepath Scheme

Recently, On 14the June 2022 Government introduced a scheme for recruitment into the Indian Armed Force, Called Agneepath Scheme. Just after a few days, Youth started protesting against the scheme, People took to the streets, and riots took place. But why? And what is the Agneepath scheme?

By the end of this article, you will understand everything.

What Is Agneepath Scheme?

This scheme entails a recruitment process for individuals below the rank of officer (Shipai or Sainik) to deploy fitter, younger troops on the front lines; they will have the opportunity to serve the nation for four years in one of the three forces listed below:

1)Navy

2)Army

3) Air.

It's a game-changing project that will revitalize the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Men and women between the ages of 17.5 and 21 will be recruited for the armed forces under this plan.

Those who are chosen for the scheme and allowed to serve the country will be referred to as 'Agneeveer.'

The first-year salary package is Rs 4.76 lakh, with an increase to Rs 6.92 lakh in the fourth year. Post-release, the Seva Nidhi package costs approximately Rs 11.71 lakh, including interest (tax-free) There is also a Rs 48 lakh non-contributory insurance cover. If the individuals receive an Agniveer skill certificate, it will help them find post-release employment. Following four years of service, 25% of Agniveers will be retained in the regular cadre based on merit, willingness, and medical fitness. They will then serve for a full 15-year term. While the remaining 75% of Agniveers will be demobilized, they will receive an exit or "Seva Nidhi" package worth Rs 11-12 lakh, which will be partially funded by their monthly contributions, as well as skill certificates and bank loans to help them in their second careers.

And why people are protesting against the scheme?

Many young people in India are protesting the Center's 'Agnipath' recruitment scheme at railway stations and on the roads. The armed forces will select 25% of each batch for 15 years under the Agneepath scheme. But what about the other 75%? Protesters believe that their future is jeopardized under the new scheme. They want to work for the full 15 years under the current system because it guarantees higher pay and opportunities for advancement to senior positions with pension benefits. While the recruited Agniveers will be paid a lump sum of Rs11.5 lakh after four years of service, they will receive no pension or gratuity. Protesters also believe that after four years of training, there will be no job guarantees, only skill training.

Advantages of the scheme

Agniveers will be paid Rs 30,000-45,000 per month, according to the central government. 25% of the 'Agniveer' will be inducted into the army at the end of the four-year contract. The rest will receive Rs 11-12 lakh in one lap when they retire. Agneeveers will be given preferential treatment in local jobs. State police, for example.

So, what else do people require if they are getting a job reservation?

Through reservation, the government indirectly assures people that their future is secure, and they should not be concerned about their future. If young people are given job opportunities, the nation will benefit directly.