As BJP and National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies deliberate on government formation ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in, a segment of the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) leadership is expressing concerns over the Agniveer scheme.
Introduced by the Central government in June 2022, the Agniveer scheme recruits youth aged 17-and-a-half to 21 years into the Indian Army on a contractual basis for four years. Post their tenure, 25 percent of these “Agniveers” have the opportunity to be inducted into the Indian Armed Forces, while the remaining 75 percent are expected to reintegrate into civil society and contribute to nation-building. Additionally, each Agniveer is awarded a ‘Seva Nidhi’ of Rs. 11.71 lakh at the end of their service.
The Agniveer scheme has faced significant criticism since its launch. Critics, including many youths, argue that it leaves 75 percent of recruits without adequate support or clear career prospects after their four-year service period ends. According to News18, opponents highlight several key issues: