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As the retirement of Agniveers approaches, discussions regarding their employment and future have intensified. Meanwhile, the central government is working on a concrete and comprehensive adjustment policy.

There is now great hope for the future of thousands of Agniveers who have toiled for four years to protect the nation. The first batch of Agniveers recruited under the Agnipath scheme is set to complete their service at the end of this year. The biggest question is what will happen to these young men after four years of military service. The government had previously clarified that after four years, only 25 percent of Agniveers will receive permanent appointments in the army, while the remaining 75 percent will be released from service.

Now that the retirement date is approaching, discussions regarding the employment and future of these young men have intensified. Meanwhile, the central government, especially the Home Ministry, is working on a concrete and comprehensive adjustment policy. It is believed that under this policy, retiring Agniveers will be given a large number of opportunities in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and other security agencies. If implemented, this scheme could prove to be a major relief package for thousands of youth.

Approximately 46,000 Agniveers from the first batch will retire.

The Agnipath scheme was launched in June 2022. Under this scheme, young people were recruited for four years in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The first recruitment process was completed in September 2022, in which more than 60,000 young Agniveers became Agniveers. As per the rules, approximately 75% of these Agniveers, or approximately 46,000, will complete their four-year service by the end of this year. They will not receive benefits like gratuity or pension, but will be provided with a Seva Nidhi (Service Fund). This has long raised concerns about their future careers.

Home Ministry Begins Preparations, Forms Internal Committee

According to media reports, the Home Ministry has geared up to re-employ retired Agniveers. The ministry has directed the formation of an internal committee of senior CAPF officers. This committee is working on how Agniveers can be accommodated in paramilitary forces such as the BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB. The committee is considering various options to ensure the proper utilization of Agniveers' military experience.

50 Percent Quota in CAPF, Age and Physical Relaxation Possible

According to sources, under the adjustment policy the government is working on, 50 percent of direct recruitment seats in the CAPF could be reserved for Agniveers. The upper age limit for recruitment could be relaxed. Some relaxations could be provided in the physical test. The training period could be reduced due to prior military training. This would significantly facilitate Agniveers' fresh start. Along with the central government, several state governments have also announced job preference for former Agniveers. Some states have announced reservations for seats in the police, home guard, and other departments. This clearly demonstrates that efforts are underway at all levels to retain Agniveers in the system. Similar indications have emerged before. In January, CISF Director General Praveer Ranjan stated that Agniveers retiring from the Navy could be deployed in port and coastal security operations. This statement confirms that the government is already considering this.

A major announcement may be made by March-April 2026

It is believed that the internal committee will soon submit its report to the Home Ministry. Following this, the central government may take a final decision. It is expected that this policy will be officially announced before the first batch of Agniveers retires, i.e., by March-April 2026.