Key Facts

  • Union Defence Minister Rajnath: Singh announced that any extension of Agniveers' tenure will be decided based on feedback from the armed forces.
  • Under the Agnipath scheme: (launched June 2022), soldiers, sailors, and airmen are recruited for a 4-year tenure, with up to 25% retained permanently.

GK Context

  • Agnipath replaced legacy recruitment: for Personnel Below Officer Rank (PBOR) across the Army, Navy, and Air Force to lower the age profile and pension bill.

Static GK

  • Agnipath Scheme Launch: 14 June 2022; Seva Nidhi exit package is exempt from income tax.

Mains Analytical Framework

  • Military Modernisation vs. Force Cohesion: Balancing youthful combat readiness and pension sustainability with unit experience and retention.