The BJP-led Haryana government on Wednesday announced a 10% reservation for Agniveers, those recruited into the Army through the Agnipath scheme, in police and mining guard jobs.
The decision comes months ahead of the Haryana Assembly polls and amid reports that anger among the youth against the Agnipath scheme was responsible for the BJP’s subdued performance in the Lok Sabha election.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said a 5 per cent reservation for Agniveers would be given in Group C posts. Moreover, a three-year age limit relaxation will be given for Group C and Group D posts.
Also, up to 5 lakh interest-free loans would be given for those wanting to start their own businesses.
The Agnipath scheme was unveiled by the Centre in 2022 to make the armed forces lean and reduce the defence pension bill.
Under the scheme, personnel are recruited in the Army, Navy and the Air Force on a short-term contract of four years. Of the total annual recruits, only 25% are allowed to continue for another 15 years under permanent commission.
The scheme was greeted with nationwide protests, with agitators pointing out that those leaving the service after 4 years would stare at a path of uncertainty.
Moreover, reports said the BJP suffered in the recent Lok Sabha polls in regions that contribute the most number of defence employees.
BJP’s allies, including Nitish Kumar’s JD(U), have demanded a review of the scheme. The JD(U) has said the resentment against the Agnipath scheme was visible during the elections.
The opposition has demanded the scheme to be rolled back amid a controversy over compensation for Agniveers who die in the line of duty.
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan has also begun consultations with veterans of the three services (Army, Navy and Air Force) on the recruitment scheme.