On Friday, five BJP-ruled states—Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha—announced reservations for Agniveer in state government jobs. This decision provides job opportunities for Agniveers after their service in the Armed Forces.
Background of the Agnipath Scheme:
- Agnipath Scheme: Introduced in June 2022, this scheme recruits personnel to the Indian armed forces for a short period of four years. After this term, up to 25% of these recruits, known as Agniveer, may join the services on a permanent commission for an additional 15 years, based on merit and other criteria.
- Prime Minister’s Defense: Prime Minister Narendra Modi defended the Agnipath scheme amidst calls for its cancellation, stating it rejuvenates the armed forces and keeps them fit for war. He criticized the Opposition for their stance, accusing them of weakening the Army.
State-Specific Announcements:
- Uttarakhand:
- Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami: Announced reservation for Agniveers in government jobs and proposed an Act to formalize this. He emphasized utilizing Agniveers’ skills and discipline in various government departments.
- Increased Aid: Aid to the kin of martyrs will increase from ₹10 lakh to ₹50 lakh.
- Madhya Pradesh:
- Chief Minister Mohan Yadav: Announced quotas for Agniveers in police and armed forces recruitment. He stressed aligning with PM Modi’s vision of modernizing the armed forces and recruiting capable and young jawans.
- Chhattisgarh:
- Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai: Announced reservations for Agniveers in police constable and forest guard recruitments, with necessary guidelines to be issued soon.
- Uttar Pradesh:
- Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath: Announced weightage for Agniveers in recruitment for UP Police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC). He highlighted the benefits of having trained and disciplined youth returning from service.
- Odisha:
- Chief Minister Mohan Majhi: Announced a 10% quota and five-year age relaxation for Agniveers in uniform services. He highlighted the scheme’s role in building a competent and courageous youth ready to face various challenges.
Earlier Announcements:
- Haryana: Previously, the BJP government in Haryana announced a similar job quota for Agniveers on July 17.
These announcements reflect a collective effort by BJP-ruled states to integrate Agniveers into state government roles, leveraging their military training and discipline for various public service positions.
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