Haryana Government Announces Major Benefits for Agniveers Ahead of Assembly Polls

In a significant move ahead of the upcoming assembly polls, Haryana's BJP government announced substantial benefits for Agniveers, including a 10% reservation in the recruitment of constables, forest guards, and jail wardens, among other posts.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini stated that Agniveers will receive a three-year relaxation in the upper age limit for civil posts in Group B and Group C, with an extended five-year relaxation for the first batch.

Saini also revealed a five percent reservation in direct recruitments for civil posts in Group C and one percent in Group B, emphasizing that these measures aimed to support Agniveers in securing post-service employment.

An annual subsidy of Rs 60,000 will be provided to industrial units employing Agniveers at salaries over Rs 30,000 per month, and no interest will be charged on loans up to Rs 5 lakh for Agniveers starting a business.

Saini launched a scathing attack on the opposition Congress, accusing it of disseminating false information about the Agnipath scheme, which faces substantial criticism from various sectors since its inception by the central BJP government in June 2022.

The Agnipath scheme, designed for the short-term induction of youths into the armed forces, allows for the retention of 25% of recruits for an additional 15 years, marking a significant shift in military recruitment strategy.

During a recent Lok Sabha campaign, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi vowed to scrap the Agnipath scheme if the opposition gains power, underscoring the political contention surrounding the policy.

(With inputs from agencies.)