NEW DELHI: In a significant relief to Agniveers, the government has announced a two-year extension in their engagement period under the Agnipath scheme, opening up an opportunity for them to serve in the armed forces beyond the existing four-year tenure.
Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani announced the development on Wednesday, saying the decision followed a review of the scheme and the positive feedback received on the performance of Agniveers.
The proposed extension will provide greater continuity in military service, while the existing provision of retaining 25 per cent of Agniveers in regular service on merit will continue. Those completing the extended engagement may also get an opportunity for regular enrolment, subject to the prescribed selection criteria.
The move marks a significant change in the Agnipath framework, which was introduced in 2022, and is expected to address concerns over the limited duration of service under the original arrangement.