The Agnipath Scheme (अग्निपथ योजना) is a short-term recruitment initiative by the Indian Government for youth aged 17½ to 21 years (10th/12th pass) to serve in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as Agniveers for a 4-year term. Launched to build a youthful, tech-savvy, and disciplined military force, it offers attractive annual pay (starting at ₹4.76 lakh), risk allowances, and a tax-free Seva Nidhi package of ₹11.71 lakh upon exit.
Up to 25% of top performers may be absorbed into the regular cadre. Agniveers receive skill certification, career support, and post-service job opportunities in CAPF, state police, and private sectors, contributing to national integration and employability.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Agnipath Scheme (अग्निपथ योजना) |
| Post Title | Agniveer (अग्निवीर) |
| Launched By | Ministry of Defence, Government of India |
| Services Covered | Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force |
| Total Duration of Service | 4 Years (including training period) |
| Recruitment Basis | Pan-India, merit-based, centralized and transparent |
| Eligibility Criteria | 10th/12th Pass (varies by force & role) |
| Permanent Absorption | Up to 25% based on merit and performance |
| Recruitment Frequency | Conducted annually for each service |
| Application Mode | Online via official websites |
| Official Websites | Army: joinindianarmy.nic.in Navy: joinindiannavy.gov.in Air Force: agnipathvayu.cdac.in |
| Training Centers | Existing Defence Training Institutions |
| Deployment | Land, Sea, Air – varied terrain across India |
| Annual Salary Package | Year 1: ₹4.76 Lakh Year 2: ₹5.24 Lakh Year 3: ₹5.80 Lakh Year 4: ₹6.92 Lakh |
| Monthly In-hand Salary | Year 1: ₹21,000 Year 2: ₹23,100 Year 3: ₹25,580 Year 4: ₹28,000 |
| Seva Nidhi Corpus (Exit at 4 Yrs) | ₹11.71 Lakh (including interest, Govt. match, tax-free) |
| Leave | Annual: 30 days Sick Leave: As advised |
| Allowances | Risk & Hardship, Ration, Dress, Travel |
| Medical Cover | Fully provided during service |
| Death Compensation | ₹48 Lakh (Insurance) + ₹44 Lakh (Ex-gratia) + Seva Nidhi + balance pay |
| Disability Compensation | ₹44 Lakh (100%) ₹25 Lakh (75%) ₹15 Lakh (50%) |
| Post-Service Benefits | – Skill Certificate – Career assistance – Preference in CAPF, police, PSUs – Academic credits |
| Women Eligibility | Yes, in Navy & Air Force; pilot programs in Army |
| Pension & Gratuity | Not applicable |
| Ex-Serviceman Benefits | Not eligible (ECHS, CSD, etc., unless absorbed in permanent cadre) |
| Skill Certification | Yes, recognized by NSDC/IGNOU and others |
| Objective of Scheme | Youth empowerment, armed forces modernization, national integration |
| Future Career Options | Defence, Govt. Jobs, CAPF, State Police, Private Sector |
Agnipath Scheme (अग्निपथ स्कीम) 2026: Empowering Youth to Serve the Nation as Agniveers
The Agnipath Scheme continues to offer a unique opportunity for Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces (Army, Air Force, and Navy) as Agniveers (अग्निवीर). This pan-India, merit-based recruitment program offers a four-year tenure, attractive monthly emoluments, and a substantial “Seva Nidhi” package upon completion of service. A significant aspect of the scheme is the opportunity for Agniveers to apply for enrolment in the permanent cadre after their four-year engagement.
Key Highlights of the Agnipath Scheme:
Service Tenure: Four years, including training.
Recruitment: Pan-India, merit-based selection process.
Eligibility: Generally, candidates between 17.5 to 21 years of age who have passed their 10th or 12th standard are eligible. Note: While the initial notification in 2022 provided a one-time age relaxation up to 23 years, subsequent recruitments are expected to adhere to the 17.5 to 21 years age limit unless specific notifications state otherwise.
Permanent Enrolment: Up to 25% of Agniveers may be offered an opportunity to enrol in the permanent cadre based on merit, performance during their service, and organizational requirements through a central, transparent, and rigorous assessment.
Financial Package: Agniveers receive an attractive monthly salary that increases annually, along with various allowances. Upon completion of the four-year tenure, they receive a one-time “Seva Nidhi” package of approximately ₹11.71 Lakhs, which includes their contribution and an equal contribution from the Government, along with accrued interest. This amount is exempt from Income Tax.
Life Insurance: Non-contributory life insurance cover of ₹48 Lakhs for the duration of their service.
Compensation for Death/Disability: Significant financial compensation is provided in case of death or disability attributable to service. This includes an ex-gratia amount and pay for the unserved portion of their engagement.
Skill Certificate: Agniveers receive a skill gained certificate upon completion of their four-year engagement, enhancing their future employability.
Financial Package Breakdown (Indicative):
| Year | Monthly Package (Approx.) | Salary in Hand (70% Approx.) | Contribution to Agniveer Corpus Fund (30% Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | ₹30,000 | ₹21,000 | ₹9,000 |
| 2nd | ₹33,000 | ₹23,100 | ₹9,900 |
| 3rd | ₹36,500 | ₹25,580 | ₹10,950 |
| 4th | ₹40,000 | ₹28,000 | ₹12,000 |
Post-Service Benefits
Upon completion of their four-year engagement, Agniveers are provided with several benefits to facilitate their transition into civilian life:
Seva Nidhi Package: As detailed earlier, they receive a lump sum of approximately ₹11.71 Lakhs (tax-free), comprising their contribution, an equal government contribution, and accrued interest. This substantial amount can serve as a financial foundation for their future endeavors.
Skill Gained Certificate: Agniveers are awarded a comprehensive skill certificate that highlights the skills and level of competency they acquired during their military service. This certificate enhances their employability in various sectors by formally recognizing their training and experience. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is actively involved in aligning the skills learned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF), further boosting the value of this certification.
Class 12th Certificate: Agniveers who joined after passing their 10th-grade exams are eligible to receive a Class 12th equivalent certificate upon completing their four-year engagement. This recognition is based on the skills attained during their service and provides them with the necessary educational qualification for pursuing higher education or certain job opportunities.
Opportunity for Permanent Enrolment: Up to 25% of each batch of Agniveers have the opportunity to apply for enrolment in the permanent cadre of the Armed Forces based on their merit and organizational requirements. Those selected will serve for an additional minimum of 15 years and will be entitled to all the benefits of a regular soldier, including pension.
Reservations in Government Jobs: The Central Government and several state governments have announced reservations in various government sector jobs for Agniveers. This includes positions in the Ministry of Defence, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Assam Rifles, Indian Coast Guard, and other state government departments, particularly the police forces. Age relaxations are also often provided for these recruitments.
Financial Assistance for Entrepreneurship: Schemes like Mudra and Stand-Up India are being leveraged to provide credit support to Agniveers who wish to set up their own businesses after their service.
Liaison with Industries for Job Opportunities: The Armed Forces and the government are actively working with various industries and corporate sectors to create re-employment opportunities for Agniveers, recognizing their discipline, training, and acquired skills.
Special Educational Courses: The Ministry of Education is introducing special skill-based bachelor’s degree programs for Agniveers, recognizing the skill training they receive during their service. The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) also offers customized courses to help Agniveers obtain their Class 10th and 12th certificates.
Opportunities in the Merchant Navy: The Directorate General of Shipping is working with the Indian Navy to create pathways for the smooth transition of Agniveers into various roles within the Merchant Navy.
Other Potential Opportunities: Sectors like telecommunications (optical fiber maintenance, etc.), physical education training, and state-owned enterprises under various ministries are also exploring opportunities for employing ex-Agniveers.
The aim is to ensure that Agniveers, upon completion of their service, are well-equipped with skills, financial resources, and educational qualifications to successfully reintegrate into society and pursue diverse career paths.
Recruitment Process (General Outline):
The recruitment process typically involves online registration, followed by various stages such as physical fitness tests, medical examinations, and written examinations. Specific details and schedules are announced by each branch of the Armed Forces (Army, Air Force, and Navy) through their official websites.
Compensation in Case of Mishaps
In case of mishaps leading to disability during their service, Agniveers are entitled to compensation based on the percentage of disability as assessed and laid down by medical authorities. This compensation is a one-time ex-gratia payment and is determined by the extent of the disability attributed to or aggravated by military service.
The following one-time ex-gratia amounts are applicable based on the percentage of disability:
- 100% Disability: ₹44 Lakhs
- 75% Disability: ₹25 Lakhs
- 50% Disability: ₹15 Lakhs
It’s important to note that this is a one-time payment in addition to other benefits they may be entitled to based on their service and the terms of the Agnipath scheme. The assessment of the percentage of disability and its attributability to military service will be carried out by the relevant medical authorities.
Important Points to Note:
- Agniveers will be governed by specific terms and conditions of service.
- They will not be eligible for traditional pension or gratuity benefits applicable to regular armed forces personnel.
- Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) and Canteen Stores Department (CSD) facilities are generally not applicable to Agniveers during their four-year engagement.
- The Agnipath Scheme aims to create a more youthful and technologically adept armed forces while providing an opportunity for young Indians to serve the nation and gain valuable skills and experience.
Official Websites for Recruitment Information:
- Indian Army: www.indianarmy.nic.in
- Indian Air Force: www.indianairforce.nic.in
- Indian Navy: www.indiannavy.nic.in
Prospective candidates are advised to regularly visit the official websites of the respective armed forces for the latest updates on recruitment notifications, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and important dates for the Agnipath Scheme.
What is the Agnipath Scheme 2026? The Agnipath Scheme is a recruitment process for Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces. Under this scheme, selected individuals, known as Agniveers, serve for a period of four years. The Agnipath Scheme aims to create a younger, fitter, and more agile military force. For the 2026 intake, the recruitment process is underway in 2025.
What is the significance of the Agnipath Scheme? The Agnipath Scheme aims to reduce the average age of the armed forces, enhance their combat readiness, and create a pool of disciplined and skilled youth who can contribute to the civilian sector after their service. It also aims to reduce the long-term pension burden on the government.
What happens to the Agniveers who are not retained? Agniveers who are not retained after four years receive the Seva Nidhi package and a skill certificate. They are also expected to be given preference in recruitment for certain government jobs, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Assam Rifles, and police and allied forces in several states.
