‘Quota for ex-Agniveers in CAPF will not affect existing matrix’, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• The Union Home Ministry increased reservation for ex-Agniveers in Group C posts of CAPF from 10% to 50%.
• This enhancement will not affect the existing caste-based reservation matrix which cannot exceed the 50% cap fixed by the Supreme Court.
• 50% of vacant Constable posts in the Border Security Force (BSF) will be reserved for ex-Agniveers.
• As of January 1, 2024, there were 5.99 lakh Constables in all CAPFs against a sanctioned strength of 6.29 lakh.
• The first batch of Agniveers will be eligible for recruitment in the CAPFs in 2026.

Detailed Insights:

• Recruitment in CAPFs adheres to the existing caste-based formula: 15% for Scheduled Castes, 7.5% for Scheduled Tribes, and 27% for Other Backward Classes.
• The implementation modalities for the 50% reservation for ex-Agniveers are still under consideration, including whether it will be a horizontal or vertical reservation.
• Ex-Agniveers will be exempted from the Physical Efficiency Test but must appear for written examinations with a minimum educational qualification of Class 10.
• The Agnipath recruitment policy, announced in 2022, allows for a four-year service period in the armed forces, after which recruits can apply for CAPF positions.
• Concerns have been raised that this policy may reduce employment opportunities for young individuals preparing for CAPF Constable exams, particularly in rural areas.

Key Concepts Involved:

• CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces): Uniformed security forces in India under the authority of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Agnipath Scheme: A recruitment process for the armed forces, where soldiers serve for four years.
• Reservation Matrix: A system of quotas ensuring representation for various caste and community groups in government jobs and educational institutions.