New Delhi: In a first-of-its kind recruitment drive in Indian Armed Forces, the government on Tuesday launched the Agnipath scheme aimed at revolutionizing the recruitment in all 3 wings – Army, Navy & Air Force.

Defence Minister announced the launch of Agnipath military recruitment scheme today, in presence of 3 service chiefs.

#WATCH | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the three service chiefs hold a press conference, in Delhi https://t.co/QTd2nIXnNk

— ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2022

Under this scheme, candidates will get a unique chance to serve in the defence forces for a limited period. Those youngsters wanting to serve the nation in uniform will be hired for a period of 4 years, after due screening & training.

Chance to serve in uniform for 4 years & more…

The Agnipath Recruitment Scheme has been a topic of intense debate for sometime now, with many welcoming the move for allowing youngsters to imbibe a feeling of nationalism while critics slamming the move as ill-advised which will only dilute the high-standards of Armed Forces. Government believes that the tough training of youngsters in forces will also make them preferable choice for private sector, when they quit after 4 years service.

The Agnipath Recruitment Scheme has been designed to induct more troops for shorter-term tenures. It is being implemented by the Department of Military Affairs.

The move will significantly help government in reducing expenditures and also improve the age profile of defence forces.

‘Agnipath model’ already working in other nations

After completion of 4 years, about 80% of soldiers would be relieved from duty and would also be assisted by the Armed Forces in getting further employment. The best among the lot would also be allowed & encouarged to continue their service, if vacancies are available.

The Armed Forces hope to save thousands of crores in pay, allowances & pension, if the scheme is implemented in efficient manner and considerable number of soldiers are taken in under the tour of duty concept.

This recruitment model of inducting youths in Army on temporary basis is already working in many countries. The Department of Military Affairs studied 8 countries before preparing recruitment model for India.