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6 Oct 2024

First batch of Agniveers to retire in 2026-27: What are their future prospects, check here


In 2026-27, approximately 42% of soldiers retiring from the first batch of Agniveers will be absorbed into various government jobs. This is in addition to the 25% of Agniveers who will continue their service in the Indian Army. 


The remaining 75% of those not selected for the army will primarily be employed in various ministries of the central and state governments. Notably, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has indicated that the Indian Air Force (IAF) is considering absorbing more than the initially planned 25% of Agniveers.


The first batch of Agniveers will complete their four-year service period by 2026-27, and this group is expected to comprise around 1,00,000 soldiers. Out of this, 25,000 will transition into regular army roles. Of the remaining 75,000 Agniveers, 42%—approximately 31,500 soldiers—will be placed into regular government service across a variety of ministries. 


They are expected to serve in departments beyond paramilitary forces, including other central and state government entities. According to a Home Ministry official, the long-term goal is to find placement for 100% of the Agniveers after their four-year service, with the initial phase targeting 42%.


Agniveer Scheme 


The Agniveer scheme was launched by the central government on June 15, 2022. Under this program, young soldiers, called Agniveers, serve in the Indian armed forces for a period of four years. At the end of their service, a select 25% are absorbed into regular roles within the military, while the rest are transitioned out of military service, with provisions for further employment in government and private sectors.


IAF is open to accommodating over 25% of retiring Agniveers


Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has expressed optimism about the Agniveer initiative, particularly in relation to the IAF. On Friday, Singh revealed that the IAF is open to accommodating more than 25% of the retiring Agniveers if the government approves the proposal. He emphasized that the IAF has a positive outlook on the program, which could lead to greater integration of Agniveers into the air force beyond the initially planned threshold. However, the final decision on this expansion will rest with the government.


Post-Retirement Benefits and Employment Policies


According to officials from the Home Ministry, Agniveers transitioning into government roles will continue to benefit from a lump-sum retirement payout, which is applicable to all Agniveers after their four-year term. Once employed in regular government roles, these soldiers will receive salaries and allowances in line with the norms of the respective departments they join.


Allocation of Agniveers Across Ministries


The government is planning to create a dedicated unit within each ministry to oversee the placement of retiring Agniveers. These units will be responsible for evaluating the educational qualifications and skill sets of the Agniveers and determining the best fit for their skills within government departments. This strategic approach aims to ensure that each Agniveer is placed in a role where their expertise can be best utilized.


In addition to central government jobs, state governments will also be encouraged to accommodate as many Agniveers as possible. A central government official mentioned that the age relaxation criteria for hiring Agniveers into government roles would remain in place, ensuring that those who meet the required qualifications can be easily integrated into regular government service.


Future Prospects


With the Agniveer scheme laying the foundation for large-scale employment post-military service, the government is keen on ensuring that retiring Agniveers are smoothly transitioned into civilian life with secure job placements. This not only helps with soldier resettlement but also strengthens various government sectors by introducing a disciplined and skilled workforce. 

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