Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari today called the Central government’s decision to reserve vacancies for Agniveers in the CAPFs and Assam Rifles a “very positive step” and urged the protesting youth to gather “correct information” and have their doubts about the scheme cleared before resorting to violence.
“It’s a huge step forward. This is one assurance that those who will be leaving the army after four years have been hoping for. I’m confident this will be followed by a slew of other announcements, all of which will undoubtedly address issues raised by youth “Chaudhari stated.
MHA also announced a three-year age relaxation for Agniveers for recruitment in CAPFs and Assam Rifles above the upper age limit.
Age relaxation will be for 5 years over the upper age limit for the initial batch of Agniveers.
In response to the protests, he stated, “Using violence and burning as a solution is not a viable option. There are military installations, Air Force bases, and Naval bases nearby if they have any doubts. They can go to them and have their questions answered.”
“What they need to do now is obtain the necessary information and fully comprehend the programme. They’ll be able to observe the scheme’s advantages and benefits for themselves. I am confident that this would dispel any and all questions they may have “he says.
Protests against the new Armed Forces recruitment process have erupted in several parts of the country. Protests got violent in several areas, with trains being set ablaze.
He went on to say, “Agnipath Scheme is extremely important. Because the nature of warfare is changing, we need younger, more tech-savvy personnel in the military. We will profit from having to pick more technically qualified personnel for the specific task that they will do in the future in the Air Force, especially for the IAF.”
When asked about the benefits of the Agnipath Scheme for Agniveers, Air Chief Marshal stated, “Agniveers can compete for a service that will earn them a pension by re-enlisting in the IAF. They can set up on their own or be assured of positions in the public, government, or private sector if they leave and desire to seek higher education or start a business.”
