Bagdogra (West Bengal): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday described the decision to offer 75 per cent of Agniveers an additional two-year service period as a “major gift”, saying those who meet prescribed criteria will also get an opportunity to join the Army as regular soldiers.
Addressing soldiers in Bagdogra, West Bengal, Singh said the additional tenure, called the ‘Second Tour of Duty’, would be offered to Agniveers based on their willingness. The arrangement will extend their total service period from four to six years.
Second Tour of Duty for Agniveers
Singh said the decision would provide Agniveers another opportunity to serve the country. Those completing six years and meeting the prescribed standards would be eligible to join the Army as regular soldiers. Under the original Agnipath framework, up to 25 per cent of each batch could be retained in the regular cadre based on merit and organisational requirements, while the remaining 75 per cent were to leave after four years.
The revised arrangement provides the remaining Agniveers an additional two-year engagement, subject to willingness. The extended tenure will include higher remuneration, an enhanced Seva Nidhi package and cumulative seniority benefits.
Discipline and Technology Key to Military Strength
Congratulating Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit on assuming charge as Chief of the Indian Air Force, Singh said discipline and courage remained indispensable despite technological advancements. He described discipline as the quality that transforms an ordinary soldier into an extraordinary warrior and urged personnel to maintain high standards of conduct.
The Defence Minister also stressed the importance of soldiers’ interaction with local communities, saying their behaviour, language, uniform and restraint shaped the Army’s image. He said maintaining the affection of people in Bagdogra and surrounding areas was equally important for strengthening national security.
Singh highlighted the growing role of drones, cybersecurity and indigenous defence technology. He said Indian start-ups and industries were developing drones, anti-drone systems and improved equipment, while soldiers were increasingly adopting technologies made in India.
Morale Remains the Biggest Strength
Singh said high morale was among the Armed Forces’ greatest strengths, adding that soldiers drew confidence from knowing their country and leadership stood behind them.
The Agnipath scheme was introduced in June 2022 to recruit personnel into the Army, Navy and Air Force for four years. The revised arrangement follows an assessment of its implementation, including Agniveers’ fitness, discipline, motivation and technological adaptability.
