Gandhinagar, November 5, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Centre’s decision to offer Agniveers an option for a second two-year service term is a “win-win situation” for both the personnel and the armed forces, a senior Indian Air Force (IAF) officer said on Thursday.
Gurjot Singh Bhullar, Senior Officer-in-Charge Administration at the Gandhinagar-headquartered South Western Air Command (SWAC), described the Agnipath scheme as a process of “collective refinement”, saying the government’s decision followed feedback and an assessment of Agniveers currently serving in the armed forces.
Addressing a press conference, Bhullar said Agniveers are deployed across frontline commands and perform core operational as well as administrative duties. He said those absorbed into the Air Force serve in areas including air defence, fighter and helicopter operations, sensor management and radar systems, besides administrative functions.
Without disclosing exact figures, he said a “sizeable chunk” of Agniveers is serving in SWAC, adding that their distribution across commands is almost equal and balanced.
On the prospects of retaining Agniveers, the Air Vice Marshal said the forces would need trained, motivated personnel familiar with technologically advanced equipment. He said retaining trained individuals would benefit the military, given the investment in training and specialised equipment.
Bhullar said the second engagement would address concerns among Agniveers, as the earlier 25 per cent retention cap would not apply to it. Selection would depend on meeting minimum criteria, including discipline, medical fitness and job performance. Those meeting the requirements could be absorbed into the armed forces as regular personnel, he said.
He also said competition among Agniveers under the scheme had a positive impact on work output, motivation, morale, physical fitness and overall performance, as personnel sought to demonstrate their capabilities.
FOLLOW NOW
