Model Answer

Agnipath scheme aims to create a younger, technologically skilled and agile military through short-term recruitment. Recent discussions on extending Agniveers' service tenure have renewed debates over operational readiness and personnel welfare.

Major Objectives of Agnipath

1. Younger forces improve physical fitness and operational readiness.
2. Modernisation promotes technologically skilled military personnel.
3. Fiscal efficiency aims to reduce long-term pension liabilities.
4. Skilled workforce develops disciplined youth for civilian employment.
5. Merit-based recruitment enables selection through performance assessments.

Major Concerns

1. Job insecurity arises from limited guaranteed permanent absorption.
2. Operational experience may suffer due to frequent personnel turnover.
3. Unit cohesion requires sustained training and teamwork.
4. Limited benefits create differences between Agniveers and regular soldiers.
5. Rehabilitation challenges affect employment opportunities after military service.
6. Rural aspirations face uncertainty where military employment provides economic security.

Way Forward

1. Flexible tenure through the newly approved two-year extension for the remaining 75% after initial selection.
2. Transparent absorption using objective performance and operational criteria.
3. Skill certification to improve civilian employability.
4. Employment pathways through CAPF recruitment preferences and state-level opportunities.
5. Periodic evaluation of operational readiness, retention and personnel welfare.

Agnipath can support military modernisation, but its success requires balancing youthful recruitment with operational effectiveness, job security and dignified rehabilitation.