BJP-Ruled States Offer Job Reservations For Agniveers Amid Criticism Of Agnipath Scheme

As the BJP-led government faces criticism over the Agnipath scheme, several BJP-ruled states are stepping up to support it by offering job reservations for Agniveers (those who have served under the scheme) in state jobs.

Support from BJP-ruled States

Several states have announced reservations for Agniveers. Rajasthan will provide job reservations for Agniveers in the state police, jail guard, and forest guard positions. However, the exact percentage of reservation was not disclosed. Arunachal Pradesh will offer training to local youths for recruitment under Agnipath and give retired Agniveers preference in the state’s police, emergency, and fire services.

Other States Announce Similar Measures

Earlier, BJP-led states such as Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha also announced reservations for Agniveers.

– Uttar Pradesh: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that Agniveers will get priority for jobs in the police service and the Pradeshik Armed Constabulary (PAC).

– Madhya Pradesh: Chief Minister Mohan Yadav revealed that his government would provide reservations for Agniveers in police and armed forces recruitment.

– Uttarakhand: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami pledged to create provisions for Agniveers in government services, emphasizing the use of their skills and discipline.

– Odisha: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a 10% quota and a five-year age relaxation for Agniveers in uniformed services.

Haryana has also joined in, offering 10% reservation for Agniveers in various state positions.

Central Government’s Support

The Home Ministry has announced a 10% reservation and a three-year age relaxation for Agniveers in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Assam Rifles. Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed these changes, adding that the first batch of Agniveers would receive a five-year age relaxation.

Opposition Criticism

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has vowed to cancel the Agnipath scheme within 24 hours if his party comes to power. He criticized the scheme for compromising national security and the future of soldiers.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also criticized the scheme, arguing that it undermines the quality of military training by allowing soldiers to serve for only 3-4 years after just six months of training.

PM Modi’s Defense

Prime Minister Narendra Modi defended the Agnipath scheme during the Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrations, describing it as a necessary reform to keep the military youthful and fit for war. He dismissed claims that the scheme was designed to cut pension costs and emphasized that the goal is to address the aging issue within the Indian armed forces.