Agnipath Scheme (Agniveer)
A short-service recruitment model for the Indian Armed Forces.
The Agnipath Scheme is a recruitment scheme announced by the Government of India on 14 June 2022 for enrolling soldiers, airmen and sailors below the rank of commissioned officers into the three services of the Indian Armed Forces — the Army, Navy and Air Force. Recruits under this scheme are known as Agniveers, a new military rank.
Scheme at a Glance
| Announced | 14 June 2022 |
| Lead Ministry | Ministry of Defence (MoD) |
| Service Tenure | 4 years (including training) |
| Rank Introduced | Agniveer |
| Retention | Up to 25% retained for regular service |
Key Features
- Agniveers serve for a fixed term of four years, including the training period.
- After four years, up to 25% of each batch may be selected for permanent enrolment based on merit.
- A lump-sum tax-free Seva Nidhi package is paid on completion of service.
- Agniveers are provided life insurance cover during their service period.
- Aims to create a younger, more agile and tech-savvy armed force and to reduce the average age profile of the military.
- Seeks to reduce the long-term pension burden on the defence budget.
- Provides skill certificates and bridging courses to help Agniveers in their future civilian careers.
Practice MCQs
Q1. In which year was the Agnipath Scheme announced?
a) 2020 b) 2021 c) 2022 d) 2023
Answer: c) 2022
Q2. What is the fixed service tenure for an Agniveer?
a) 2 years b) 4 years c) 5 years d) 10 years
Answer: b) 4 years
Q3. Which ministry implements the Agnipath Scheme?
a) Ministry of Home Affairs b) Ministry of Defence c) Ministry of External Affairs d) Ministry of Finance
Answer: b) Ministry of Defence
Q4. What is the maximum percentage of Agniveers that may be retained for regular service?
a) 10% b) 25% c) 50% d) 75%
Answer: b) 25%
Q5. The lump-sum amount paid to Agniveers on completion of service is called?
a) Seva Nidhi b) Jan Dhan c) Suraksha Bima d) Kisan Nidhi
Answer: a) Seva Nidhi