How Agniveer Compensation

• Recently, the issue of compensation for Agniveer Ajay Kumar's family has sparked controversy after allegations by Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. He claimed that the family did not receive adequate financial assistance from the government. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh refuted this, stating that Agniveers killed in action receive Rs 1 crore as compensation. However, discrepancies arose when the Army later announced that the compensation was actually Rs 1.65 crore. This incident has highlighted concerns regarding the implementation and transparency of the Agnipath scheme.

About the Agnipath Scheme:

• Launched in 2022 by the central government.
• Aimed at recruiting individuals below officer rank into the armed forces.
• Emphasizes deployment of young, fit troops on four-year contracts, enhancing frontline capabilities.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Age requirement: 17.5 to 21 years.
• Open to both genders, subject to specified age limits.
• Recruitment through biannual rallies; rigorous selection criteria maintained.

Pay and Benefits:

• Lump sum compensation of Rs 1 crore to families of deceased Agniveers.
• Additional benefits include full pay for the period the soldier could not serve.
• Disability compensation up to Rs 44 lakh based on disability percentage attributed to military service.

Distinct Features:

• Agniveers do not receive pensions post-retirement, except for 25% who may qualify after four years of regular service.
• Aims to reduce permanent force levels and the defence pension bill.

Current Status of Recruitment:

• Army: Two batches of 40,000 Agniveers trained, third batch of 20,000 undergoing training.
• Navy: Three batches of 7,385 completed training.
• Indian Air Force (IAF): 4,955 Agniveers trained.

Why Agnipath Scheme was Introduced:

Objectives:

• To lower the average age of armed forces personnel from 32 to 26 years.
• Transform the armed forces into a youthful, technologically advanced entity.
• Facilitate transition of Agniveers into civil society with enhanced skills and discipline.

Government's Perspective:

• Projected benefits include improved workforce quality, productivity, and GDP growth.
• Seeks to modernize armed forces and align with contemporary defence needs.

Opposition and Concerns:

Criticism:

• Critics argue Agniveers perform duties akin to regular soldiers but with reduced pay, benefits, and career prospects.
• Recent calls for equal compensation for fallen Agniveers' families compared to regular soldiers.

Public Dissatisfaction:

• Some view military service as a path to economic stability and social advancement.
• Disparity in benefits seen as undermining morale and commitment among Agniveers.

Conclusion and Way Forward:

• The Agnipath scheme represents a significant reform effort aimed at rejuvenating India's armed forces with younger personnel while addressing longstanding fiscal challenges. However, recent controversies over compensation highlight the need for greater clarity and equity in policy implementation. As the scheme continues to evolve, it is crucial for stakeholders to address concerns regarding benefits, career progression, and support for Agniveers and their families. Ensuring transparency and fairness will be key to maintaining public trust and the effectiveness of this transformative initiative in bolstering national security.