As the first date for the completion of the batch, Agniveer services propose to improve the scheme

A look at the newly introduced batch of Agniveer. File | Photo credit: The Hindu

With the first batch of Agniveers set to complete their four-year tenure later this year, the Army, Navy and Air Force have submitted recommendations to the Ministry of Military Affairs on ways to improve the implementation of the Agnipath scheme.

A senior Defense Ministry official confirmed that the three services had shared their proposals based on their experience in implementing the scheme over the past four years. A report containing the recommendations was sent to the appropriate authority for consideration.

However, the official refused to reveal the nature of the recommendation.

Balancing youth with experience

This comes amid renewed focus on the Agnipath scheme as the first batch of Agniveers who enrolled in 2023 are set to complete their contract period in October 2026.

As per the existing policy, up to 25% of each batch of Agniveers can be retained in the regular cadre based on organizational requirements and performance. Those retained continue to serve as enlisted personnel in the armed services, while the remaining 75% retire after four years.

The review of the scheme comes as the armed forces struggle to balance the goal of retaining younger forces with the need for operational experience and continuity. The three services have been implementing the scheme since 2022 and have gained experience in training and deploying Agniveers in various operational and support roles.

Only 25% retained.

The Agnipath programme, which was introduced in June 2022, marked a major change in the recruitment policy of the armed forces. Under this program, young men and women between the ages of 17.5 and 21 are accepted as Agniveers for a period of four years, including six months of training.

At the end of the four-year engagement, up to 25% of the cohort may be selected for permanent enrolment, while the remaining employees leave the services with a tax-free Seva Nidhi package. The package is made through Agniveer’s monthly contributions, which are matched by the government, and currently costs around ₹ 11.71 lakh. Those who leave after four years receive no pension or gratuity.

Recommendations from the three services are expected to provide input to further refine the system based on its implementation experience, although the government continues to say there is no move to change the current permanent retention ratio.

Published – 04 Oct 2026 19:59 IST