Modi Government Reserves 10% Constable Posts For Ex-Agniveers, Amid Opposition Criticism

In a significant move to support former Agniveers, the Modi government has announced the reservation of 10% of constable positions in Central Armed Police Forces for individuals who have previously served under the Agnipath scheme. Additionally, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) will provide exemptions in the physical efficiency tests for these ex-Agniveers, with preparations already underway as confirmed by Neena Singh, Director General of CISF.

The Agnipath scheme, introduced on June 14, 2022, aims to recruit young individuals aged between 17-and-a-half and 21 years for a period of four years, with an option to extend the service of 25% of them for an additional 15 years. Later, the government increased the upper age limit to 23 years to accommodate more candidates. This scheme was designed to bolster the defense forces with a fresh influx of talent, though it has faced considerable scrutiny and debate.

Recently, the scheme has been a point of contention in the Parliament, where the Opposition has criticized the government’s approach. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh responded robustly to these criticisms, particularly those raised by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. Singh asserted that the Agnipath scheme was developed with input from 158 organizations, challenging Gandhi’s claims that the program was flawed.

Singh also highlighted the scheme’s provisions for Agniveers who make the ultimate sacrifice, noting that they are eligible for a compensation of Rs 1 crore. He criticized Gandhi’s portrayal of the Agniveers as “use-and-throw laborers” and refuted suggestions that they are denied martyr status. Singh’s response aimed to clarify the scheme’s intentions and reassure both the public and Parliament of its merits.

This policy shift marks a notable effort by the government to integrate Agniveers into the broader security framework, ensuring that their service is recognized and valued. As the Agnipath scheme continues to evolve, it remains a focal point of both political debate and national interest.