Proposal for 2-year extension and new categories for Agniveers

The Central Government is actively considering a proposal to increase the service period of Agniveers by two years. According to a report by News18, this move could extend the contract period of Agniveers from four years to six years. This new proposal will be known as the 'Second Tour of Duty'.

If this proposal is approved, there will be three distinct categories for military personnel. These will include those completing their 4-year tenure, those being granted a 2-year extension, and the 25% of Agniveers who will be inducted into the permanent cadre. If the proposal is approved, those who are willing and eligible after six years of service may be made permanent.

An official announcement regarding these changes in the military recruitment model is likely to be made before 21 November, 2026. The primary objective of this proposal is to retain a portion of the 75% Agniveers who are currently planning to leave service. For instance, reports suggest that Agniveers in the technical category of the Navy may be given priority based on their operational requirements.

Under the current Agnipath Scheme, recruitment into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force is done as Agniveers on a fixed four-year contract. Under the existing scheme, up to 25% of Agniveers from each batch are inducted into the permanent military cadre based on their performance and merit, while the remaining 75% return to civilian life. Candidates recruited under the Agnipath Scheme must be between 17.5 and 21 years of age and must have passed Class 10 or Class 12 based on specific military trades.

Regarding financial aspects, Agniveers receive a monthly package starting from ₹30,000 in the first year up to ₹40,000 by the fourth year. During their service, 30% of their salary is deducted, and the government contributes an equal amount to a dedicated fund. At the end of the four-year tenure, the 75% of Agniveers leaving the service are provided with an approximately ₹11.71 lakh tax-free 'Seva Nidhi' package and an 'Agniveer Skill Certificate' to assist in civilian employment.

They are also provided with a ₹48 lakh non-discretionary life insurance cover during their service, although they are not eligible for traditional military pension or gratuity benefits upon leaving the service. The first batch of Agniveers recruited under the Agnipath Scheme in 2022 is now approaching the end of their four-year contract. The first batch of the Indian Navy completes its service on 21 November, followed by the Indian Air Force on 21 December, and the Indian Army on 31 December.

The Indian Air Force has inducted 712 personnel into its permanent cadre from an initial recruitment of approximately 24,400 Agniveers.

The Agnipath Scheme was a short-term military recruitment model introduced by the Government of India for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Under this scheme, individuals were recruited as Agniveers on a fixed four-year contract.