Modi Accuses Congress of Undermining Agnipath Scheme

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused the Congress of spreading misinformation about the Agnipath scheme to deter youth from joining the armed forces. He claims this is an attempt to weaken the military, noting that previous neglect of defense reforms has hurt the armed forces' readiness.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused the Congress of spreading misinformation regarding the Agnipath scheme in an effort to dissuade youth from enlisting in the armed forces.

Addressing the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address to Parliament, Modi described Congress's critiques of the Agnipath initiative as attempts to undermine military strength.

''Lies about recruitment in the armed forces are being spread to keep youth from joining. There's a conspiracy here. On whose behest is Congress trying to weaken our military by spreading falsehoods?'' Modi questioned.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticized the Agnipath scheme, arguing that families of Agniveers who die in action are not entitled to compensation.

''Congress is spreading lies about defense reforms aiming to weaken it. They can't see our armed forces becoming stronger,'' Modi said, adding that prior negligence of timely reforms had hampered the military.

''Some matters shouldn't be discussed publicly,'' he added, citing misinformation about Rafale fighter jet acquisitions.

Modi stated that ongoing reforms aim to create a more combat-ready military. ''Significant changes have occurred in recent years. The designation of a Chief of Defence Staff has bolstered force integration,'' he said, emphasizing the need for youthful vigor in the military.

''Enhancing youth presence in the armed forces is crucial. We're implementing reforms to ensure our military's combat readiness,'' Modi affirmed.