Sparking a fire
The Agnipath policy, which has resulted in widespread and violent protests, is rationalised as being driven by financial imperatives, with the government seeking to reduce its Defence outlay. Given the project’s likely grave impact on the military and on society, it would have been
prudent to introduce it as a pilot project.
ON June 14, 2022, the Government of India announced a change to the recruiting policies of the armed forces. In contrast to the existing recruitment model, in which young people can go to a recruitment centre, pass a physical and written exam, followed by a medical test, then enrol for service in the armed forces for their working lifetime, and retire with a guaranteed pension afterwards, the new model, soon to be implemented in enrolling new soldiers, sailors, and airmen, will involve a “tour of duty” concept.
Under the new scheme, called “Agnipath”, or “Path of Fire”, recruits will join the armed forces on a fouryear contract. Those who enrol will be referred to as “Agniveers”, or “fire warriors”. At the end of four years, a maximum of 25 per cent of these recruits will be retained, at the discretion of the armed forces. This will not be a natural continuation of the four-year tour-of-duty; instead, all temporary conscripts will be issued a certificate and severance package, and those selected for continued service will have to re-enrol in the armed forces. Thus, the first four years of service will not be counted for seniority, pension, or gratuity while retiring.
There has been an outcry about the new recruitment scheme. Violent