National/Alive News: The government is considering extending the service tenure of some Agniveers from the first batch recruited under the Agnipath scheme beyond their initial four-year term. The proposal would be separate from the process of selecting personnel for permanent induction into the armed forces.
The first batch of Agniveers is due to complete its four-year service tenure on November 21. The selection process for retaining eligible personnel in the regular cadre is already underway, and a decision on the proposed extension is expected soon.
According to information that emerged on Monday, several high-level meetings have been held in Delhi over the past few days to discuss the proposal. However, the government has not yet announced a final decision. The duration of the proposed extension has also not been disclosed.
Up to 25% of Agniveers can be retained permanently
Launched in 2022, the Agnipath scheme provides for the recruitment of young people into the Army, Navy and Air Force for a four-year service period.
Under the scheme, up to 25% of Agniveers from each batch can be selected for permanent induction into the regular cadre after completing their tenure. Their selection is based on a centralised assessment that considers their performance during service, organisational requirements and the policies of the respective armed forces.
Last month, the Indian Air Force decided to retain 712 personnel from the 2,850 recruits in its first Agniveer Vayu batch.
