Agnipath Scheme 2024: Enhanced Defence Budget And Benefits For Agniveers

The Agnipath scheme, introduced in 2022, has faced controversy from the beginning. Despite its focus on national security, political parties have used it for electoral gains.

The annual budget presented by the central government includes a significant portion for defence. Last year, the defence budget saw a 13% increase.

Photo Credit: PTI

The defence budget covers salaries, training expenses, equipment maintenance, and procurement costs. The full budget for the current financial year is expected on July 23, 2024. On February 1, 2023, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented a defence budget of ₹5.94 lakh crore, marking a 13% increase from the previous year.

One key aspect of this budget is its provision for Agniveers' training aids and simulators. The increased allocation ensures that Agniveers meet the required training standards for joining the Defence Forces. The Union Budget 2023-24 granted the Agniveer Fund Exempt-Exempt-Exempt (EEE) status. This means that contributions to the fund are completely tax-free.

What is the Agnipath Scheme?

Announced on June 14, 2022, the Agnipath scheme aims to recruit youth aged 17 to 21 years into the Army, Navy, and Air Force for four years. Of these recruits, 25% can be retained for an additional 15 years. The upper age limit has been increased to 23 years.

Compensation and Insurance for Agniveers

There has been confusion about compensation and insurance for Agniveers in case of death during service. Agniveers have an insurance cover of ₹48 lakh, with premiums paid by the government. Regular soldiers have a ₹50 lakh insurance cover provided by banks.

Agniveers Receive Higher Ex-Gratia Than Army

Families of Agniveers who die in service receive ₹44 lakh as compensation. Regular soldiers' ex-gratia ranges from ₹25 to ₹45 lakh. Both Agniveers and other soldiers receive ₹8 lakh in case of death during operations and ₹2.5 lakh for other causes. Families of deceased Agniveers also receive their full salary for the remaining service period.

Disability Compensation for Agniveers

If an Agniveer becomes disabled during duty, they receive ex-gratia based on disability percentage: ₹44 lakh (76%-100%), ₹25 lakh (50%-75%), and ₹15 lakh (20%-49%). Families also get the deposited amount in the service fund with interest and the government's share.

Leave and Medical Facilities for Agniveers

Agniveers are entitled to 30 days of leave and medical leave per year. They have access to military hospitals and CSD facilities like other military personnel.

Skill Certificate After Service Completion

Upon completing their tenure, Agniveers receive a skill certificate detailing their skills and expertise gained during service.

Post-Service Opportunities for Agniveers

The biggest concern is what happens to the 75% of Agniveers who do not continue in the armed forces after four years. The government has clarified that they will be given preference in Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Assam Rifles, state police forces, and other police forces.

Agniveers Get Offers from Big Companies

Big companies and industries have announced that they will prefer 'competent and disciplined' Agniveers in their recruitment processes. Those interested in entrepreneurship will also get preference in obtaining bank loans.

Future Education of Agniveers

If an Agniveer wishes to continue their education, they will have a certificate equivalent to class 12th, allowing them to choose a bridging course of their choice.

The future looks promising for Agniveers. Their four-year service creates numerous opportunities for them. With their training and confidence, they stand out in job interviews compared to their peers.