Government defends Agnipath; busts 7 myths about Agniveers

As protests flared in many parts of the country over the new armed forces recruitment scheme, the government on Thursday released a factsheet dispelling some of the myths doing the rounds.

Let's take a look: 

Myth # 1: Agniveers' future is insecure 

Fact: Financial packages and bank loan schemes will be provided to those wishing to be entrepreneurs. Class 12-equivalent certificate and bridging course for further studies will be given to those wishing to study further. Priority will be given in Central Armed Police Forces and state police forces to those looking to obtain new employment
Avenues for employment will also be available in other sectors.

Myth # 2: Opportunities will decrease for the youth

Fact: On the contrary, the youth will have more opportunities. The recruitment of Agniveers will be around three times that of the current armed forces' recruitment in the coming years.

Myth # 3: Regimental bonding will suffer

Fact: The regimental system is not being changed. In fact, the regimental system will be further accentuated with the selection of Agniveers. This would further boost the cohesiveness of the unit.

Myth # 4: Effectiveness of the Armed Forces will be harmed

Fact: Such a short-term enlistment system has already been tested in many countries and is seen as the best practice for a youthful and agile army. In the first year, Agniveers would only make up 3 per cent of the armed forces. Moreover, the Aginveers' performance will be reviewed before re-induction after four years. The Army will get only tried and tested personnel for supervisory ranks.

Myth # 5: 21-year-olds are immature, unreliable for Army

Fact: Armed forces across the world rely on their youths. Never will there be more youngsters than experienced people. The Aginpath scheme will bring a right mix of 50 per cent each, slowly in a very long run, of experienced supervisory ranks and youngsters.

Indian Army on Monday clarified reports about a clash with Chinese soldiers at Naku La in Sikkim, stating that there was a minor face-off on January 20 and the same was resolved at local commanders level. 

The incident came just days before the ninth round of Corps Commanders-level meeting on January 24 aimed at ending the border standoff in eastern Ladakh. On Sunday, the meeting lasted for over 15 hours. 

"It is clarified that there was a minor face-off at Nakula area of North Sikkim on 20 January 2021 and the same was resolved by local commanders as per established protocols," the Army said in a statement. 

Myth # 6: Agniveers will pose a danger to society

Fact: This myth is an insult to the ethos of the Indian armed forces. Youngsters who have donned the uniform for four years will stay committed to the country for the rest of their lives. Thousands retire even now from the armed forces with skills, but there have not been any instances of them joining anti-national forces.

Myth # 7: No consultation was done before bringing the scheme

Fact: Extensive consultations were held in the last two years with serving armed forces officers. Military officers of the Department of Military Officers framed the proposal. Many former officers welcomed the scheme and recognized its advantages.