The Union Cabinet has approved a major change to the Agnipath recruitment scheme, giving Agniveers an opportunity to serve for two additional years after completing their initial four-year term. The decision was announced on November 4 by Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani.
Under the revised arrangement, 25 per cent of Agniveers will continue to be selected for regular service on merit, as provided under the original scheme. The remaining 75 per cent, who were earlier expected to leave after four years, will now be offered another two-year engagement period, subject to their willingness.
This means their total service period could increase from four to six years. After completing the additional two years, those who wish to continue will have another opportunity to join the regular Armed Forces. However, permanent enrolment will depend on meeting the prescribed selection criteria. It is not an automatic guarantee of a permanent job.
The government has described the extension as a “Second Tour of Duty”. Officials said the decision followed positive feedback on the performance of Agniveers during their first four years of service. The extended period will also bring higher remuneration and additional service-related benefits.
The move comes as more than 18,000 Agniveers from the first batch approach the end of their initial four-year tenure in December 2026.
The decision has triggered a political debate. Opposition leaders have questioned its timing and described it as an election-related move, while some former military officers have supported the change.
Several details, including the full revised rules, Seva Nidhi changes and benefits for those who are not selected for regular service, still need clear official explanation. The key point for Agniveers and their families is that a longer service opportunity does not mean permanent employment is guaranteed.
