New Delhi:
The Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh has rolled out the Agnipath scheme to induce students. The new recruitment scheme which has been introduced by the BJP-led government has sparked a major debate in the nation. On one hand the government is claiming this to be a great transformation while members of the BJP and other opposition leaders are questioning the intent of the government behind the launch of this scheme.
Protests have broken out across various states throughout the country. Keeping in view the lack of understanding that might have led to these protests, Here we are trying to fade away the haze that might have resulted in protests occurring throughout the nations, by providing a list of ‘Facts vs Myth’.
Myth: Future of Agniveers is insecure
Facts:
For those wishing to be entrepreneurs – they will get a financial package and bank loan scheme.
For those wishing to study further- they will be given 12 class equivalent certificate and bridging course for further studies.
For those wishing to obtain jobs- they will be given priority in CAPFs and State Police.
Several avenues are also being opened up for them in other sectors.
Myth: Opportunities for youth will decrease as a result of Agnipath
Facts:
Opportunities for youth to serve in armed forces will rather increase. In the coming years, recruitment of Agniveers will be around triple of the current recruitment in armed forces.
Myth: Regimental bonding will be affected
Facts:
No change is being done to the Regimental system. Infact it will be further accentuated because the best of Agniveers will be selected, further boosting cohesiveness of the unit.
Myth: This will harm the effectiveness of the Armed Forces
Facts:
Such short term enlistment system exists in most countries and hence is already tested out and considered best practice for youthful and agile army.
The numbers of Agniveers to be recruited in the first year would only make up 3% of the armed forces.
Additionally, the performance of the Agniveers will be tested before re-induction in the army after four years. Hence Army will get the tested and tried personnel for supervisory ranks.
Myth: 21-year-olds are immature and unreliable for the army
Facts:
Most armies across the world depend upon their youths.
At no point of time will there be more youngsters than experienced people. The present scheme will only bring about a right mix of 50%-50%, slowly in a very long run, of youngsters and experienced supervisory ranks.
Myth: Agniveers will be a danger to society & join terrorists
Facts:
This is an insult to the ethos and values of the Indian armed forces.
Youngsters who have worn the uniform for four years will remain committed to the country for rest of their lives.
Even now thousands retire from armed forces retire with skills etc. but there have not been any instances of them joining anti-national forces.
Myth: No Consultation for former armed forces officers
Facts:
Extensive consultations with serving armed forces officer for last two years.
The proposal has been framed by the Department of Military Officers staffed by Military officers. The department itself is a creation of this government.
Many former officers have recognized the advantages of the scheme and welcomed it.
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