The Agniveer Scheme, introduced in India in 2022, offers a unique opportunity for the nation’s youth to serve in the Indian Army for a four-year term. This scheme has attracted many aspiring candidates, but it comes with specific conditions and requirements. Here’s a detailed overview of who can apply and the rules governing the Agniveer recruitment process:
Eligibility Criteria for Agniveer Scheme:
- Marital Status:
- Only unmarried candidates are eligible to apply for the Agniveer Scheme. Married individuals are not permitted to join as Agniveers.
- Additionally, candidates under the Agniveer scheme must remain unmarried throughout their four-year tenure.
- Age Requirements:
- The age range for applying to the Agniveer Scheme is from 17.5 years to 21 years.
- Reserved category candidates may receive age relaxation as per the government norms.
- Educational Qualifications:
- Candidates must have completed Class 12 with a background in science, including subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and English.
- A minimum of 50 percent marks in Class 12 and 50 percent in English is mandatory.
- For some positions, an engineering degree with a minimum of 50 percent marks may also be required.
- Other Requirements:
- Candidates must not have any prior service in the armed forces and must meet the physical fitness and medical standards specified by the Indian Army.
Historical Context and Scheme Evolution:
- Previously, soldiers were recruited for a tenure exceeding 15 years with a lifelong pension.
- Recruitment was paused for three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
- In 2020, the Tour of Duty scheme was proposed, allowing civilians to join the armed forces for a short-term service of three years on a voluntary basis.
Key Takeaways:
- The Agniveer Scheme provides a structured pathway for youth to serve the nation, with specific eligibility criteria focusing on marital status, age, and educational qualifications.
- The scheme aims to adapt to modern requirements and offers a shorter service term compared to traditional recruitment, reflecting the changing dynamics of military service in India.
