Government Extends Agnipath Tenure, Offers Permanent Recruitment to All Agniveers
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The Union Cabinet approved a two-year extension for Agniveers completing their four-year term, after which they may be recruited permanently if they meet eligibility criteria. Supporters say the move strengthens the armed forces, rewards capable recruits, and reinforces much-needed military reform.
New Delhi – The government announced on Wednesday that Agniveers whose four-year service ends will receive a two-year extension and, subject to selection criteria and personal consent, may be offered permanent recruitment in the armed forces. The decision was disclosed by Chief of Defence Staff Gen. N.S. Raja Subramani after the Union Cabinet approved the changes recommended by the three services, marking a decisive step toward a stronger and more professional military structure.
Under the Agnipath scheme launched in June 2022, soldiers serve a four-year term, with 25 % eligible for regular service. The new provision extends the remaining 75 % by two years, after which those who satisfy the selection standards can be enrolled as regular personnel, ensuring that the best-trained and most committed Agniveers are retained for the nation’s defence.
Gen. Subramani told a press conference with Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, "The Cabinet has created a pathway for all Agniveers to be absorbed into the defence forces." He added that the original four-year framework of the Agnipath scheme will continue, preserving the disciplined and merit-based structure that has been central to the reform.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh referred to the extension as a "Second Tour of Duty" and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the decision. He said the move supports long-term structural reforms aimed at building a younger, technologically equipped military, a welcome modernization that strengthens readiness and national security.
The amendment comes weeks before roughly 18,000 Agniveers were scheduled to leave the services. Opposition parties had previously questioned the fate of the 75 % not retained after the initial term, but the revised policy now provides a clearer and more stable route for deserving personnel to continue serving the country.