With the commencement of the maiden session of the Modi 3.0 government, the opposition has strongly criticized government initiatives, particularly the "Agniveer Yojana". In his inaugural speech as the leader of the opposition, Rahul Gandhi sharply criticized various schemes launched during Modi's previous two terms.
Rahul Gandhi emphasized the inequality caused by schemes like the Agniveer Yojana among soldiers. He pointed out that this scheme ensures that only a specific faction of soldiers receives pensions, while others do not.
Why in News?
The controversial Agnipath scheme has once again come under discussion, highlighted by Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha. Gandhi criticized the scheme, stating, "Agniveer is a use-and-throw labor system. One jawan gets a pension, while another does not. You are creating a divide between jawans."
Rahul Gandhi blamed Prime Minister Modi for implementing the discriminatory Agniveer scheme without any prior discussion or consultation with the opposition, while giving his first speech in 18th Lok Sabha Session.
What is the Agnipath Scheme?
The Agnipath scheme, launched by the Central government in June 2022, enlists young individuals on a contractual basis, differing from regular soldiers in the Indian Army.
Only 25% of these individuals are selected to join the armed forces, where they can serve for 15 years as Junior Commissioned Officers in the Indian Army or in equivalent roles in the Navy and Air Force.
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Who are Agniveers?
The Agniveer program, implemented through the Agnipath Scheme, aims to recruit patriotic and motivated youth aged 17.5 to 21 years for a four-year term in the Armed Forces.
According to the Ministry of Defense, this initiative is designed to rejuvenate the Armed Forces with a youthful, tech-savvy profile, infusing fresh enthusiasm and vigor—referred to as ‘Josh’ and ‘Jazba’.
These 'Agniveers' serve for four years and subsequently transition into civilian roles to contribute their skills to national development. Upon completion, they receive a certificate and a 'Seva Nidhi' of Rs 11.71 lakh.
What is the Salary Package of Agniveer?
Agniveers receive a base pay ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000 per month, along with additional risk and hardship allowances. They contribute 30% of their monthly earnings to the Seva Nidhi fund, with the government matching this contribution. Upon completing their service, Agniveers receive a tax-exempt severance package of approximately Rs 11.71 lakhs, including interest.
In the event of an Agniveer's death while on duty, their family is awarded a lump sum of Rs 1 crore, which includes the Seva Nidhi package, along with full pay for the remaining service period. If an Agniveer sustains a disability due to or aggravated by military service, they are eligible for compensation up to Rs 44 lakhs, based on the severity of the disability.
What are the Eligibility Criteria?
A candidate applying for the Agniveer Scheme must meet certain criteria as issued by the government. Check the following table for more details:
| Criteria | Requirement |
| Nationality | Indian or Nepali Citizen |
| Age Criteria | 17.5 and 21 years |
| Education Qualification | Minimum 10th Pass (Varies Based on Post) |
Why is it in Debate?
Since its inception, the Agniveer program has faced criticism. Critics, including youth participants, argue that it lacks retirement benefits and gratuity, leaving 75% of recruits without long-term security. Concerns also revolve around the majority who leave after the four-year service period. There are calls to extend the maximum age limit to 23 to address these issues.
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