New Delhi, November 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The four-year service tenure under the Agnipath scheme remains unchanged, but Agniveers who are not selected for regular service after completing their initial term will get an opportunity to serve for an additional two years, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General NS Raja Subramani said on Wednesday.
The decision to provide this additional opportunity was taken at a Union Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, months before the first batch of around 18,000 Agniveers is due to complete its service in December 2026.
Under the existing system, up to 25 per cent of Agniveers completing four years of service can be inducted as regular soldiers. The remaining 75 per cent will now have the option of a second two-year service term, the CDS clarified.
After the extended period, their performance will be assessed based on efficiency, achievements during service and the organisational requirements of the armed forces. Those demonstrating good performance and meeting prescribed standards may be considered for regular induction.
General Subramani said selection would follow objective, merit-based criteria, taking into account the willingness of Agniveers as well as the operational and organisational needs of the armed forces. Performance assessments include physical fitness, motivation, morale, discipline and technical proficiency.
He said the additional service period would allow Agniveers to improve their skills and experience while helping the armed forces retain trained manpower. Those opting for the extended tenure will receive higher pay and increased service fund benefits.
The CDS also clarified that Agniveers selected for regular service after the second term would be placed in seniority immediately after the 25 per cent selected in the initial phase. He said not being selected during the first phase did not mean an Agniveer was less capable, as the process was strictly merit-based.
On pay, General Subramani said an Agniveer receives Rs 30,000 per month in the first year, rising to Rs 43,500 in the second year and Rs 47,500 in the third year. He also said the government has a provision to continue contributing 70 per cent of the Agniveers’ total contribution.
According to the CDS, an Agniveer completing the additional two-year service period would receive a total financial package of approximately Rs 10.92 lakh.
Launched in 2022, the Agnipath scheme introduced short-term recruitment into the armed forces to bring down the average age profile of the three services. Personnel recruited under the scheme are known as Agniveers.
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