First batch of Indian Navy Agniveers to retire this month as tenure ends

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New Delhi: The first group of Agniveers of the Indian Navy, recruited on Agnipath scheme, are scheduled to retire from the force on November 21 after completing their four-year stint.

This is the first major shift since the short-term military recruitment plan, introduced in 2022.

In the first batch of around 2,100 sailors who joined the Navy, about 550 or nearly 25 per cent were retained in the regular cadre.

The other quarters are due to leave service at the end of their period of engagement.

But, Agniveers in technical trades will be eligible for extension for up to a maximum period of two years, based on the operational requirements and policy.

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No such extension has, as of now, been communicated formally. As per the current Agnipath scheme, even 25 per cent of each batch can be taken into regular service, subject to performance and organisational requirements.

The change will not be limited to the Navy only, the initial groups of Agniveers in the Indian Army and Indian Air Force will also complete their four-year service by December 31.

Nover 18,000 forces from all three services will leave the armed forces by 2026.

Initiated in June 2022, this scheme, called Agnipath, involves young recruits who will be trained to serve in the military for four years.

Eligible candidates will be given a Seva Nidhi package and can also look for employment in other sectors like central armed police forces, state police, defence public sector undertakings, etc.

Also Read: Passing out parade of 4th batch of Agniveers at INS Chilka

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