Government to Increase Reservation for Agniveers in CAPFs to 50%

Syllabus: GS3/ Defence; Internal  Security

Context

• The Union Home Ministry has decided to enhance reservation for ex-Agniveers in the Group C posts of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) from the existing 10% to 50%.

Agnipath Scheme

• The Government launched Agnipath scheme in 2022 to recruit both male and female aspirants into ‘below the officer’s rank’ cadre of the three services for a period of four years as Agniveers.  
• Eligibility: Candidates between the age group of 17.5 to 21 years are eligible to apply for the scheme. 
• Training: These Agniveers would undergo optimised basic military training and specialised trade training followed by up-skilling courses, as required.
• Enrolment into Permanent Cadre: Based on organisational requirement and policies promulgated by the Armed Forces, Agniveers after completing their engagement period will be offered an opportunity to apply for enrolment in the permanent cadre.
  • Of these up to 25% of Agniveers will be selected to be enrolled in the Armed Forces as a regular cadre.

Key Features of the Scheme

• Agniveers receive a customized monthly package with applicable risk and hardship allowances, with 30% contributed to the Agniveer Corpus Fund, matched by the Government. 
• After four years, they are paid a tax-free SevaNidhi package (including accrued interest), totaling around ₹11.71 lakh.
• Agniveers will be provided non-contributory Life Insurance Cover of ₹48 lakh for the duration of their engagement period in the Indian Armed Forces.
• There shall be no entitlement to gratuity and pensionary benefits.

Significance of the Decision

• Employment Assurance: Strengthens post-service employment pathways for Agniveers, addressing a core concern of the scheme.
• Operational Readiness: CAPFs benefit from young, trained, and disciplined personnel with prior military exposure.
• Institutional Integration: Enhances convergence between the armed forces and CAPFs in manpower planning.

Concerns and Challenges

• Impact on Open Competition: A steep increase to 50% reservation may raise concerns among civilian aspirants.
• Uniformity Across CAPFs: Amendments are to be notified gradually, raising questions on consistency and timelines.
• Training and Role Adaptation: CAPF duties differ from military roles, requiring careful induction and retraining.

Way Ahead

• Ensure uniform implementation across all CAPFs, including CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB and Assam Rifles.
• Balance employment security for ex-Agniveers with fairness in civilian recruitment.
• Strengthen bridge training modules to align military skills with internal security and policing roles.
• Periodically review the policy based on recruitment outcomes and operational effectiveness.

Source: TH