Agniveer Scheme Gets 2-Year Extension | What Changes For Agniveers?

The Agniveer scheme is set for a major change, with the government announcing a two-year extension in the service tenure of eligible Agniveers. In this detailed explainer, we break down what the latest changes mean for Agniveers, especially those who were due to complete their initial four-year tenure by December 2026. The move is expected to benefit around 18,000 Agniveers and could significantly alter how the Agnipath recruitment model works. But first, how did the Agnipath scheme begin? Introduced in June 2022, the scheme allows young recruits to serve in the Army, Navy and Air Force for an initial period of four years. Under the original framework, up to 25% of each batch could be retained for regular military service, while the remaining 75% would return to civilian life with the Seva Nidhi package.

So, what happens to those who leave after four years? What benefits do they receive, and what challenges do they face when transitioning to civilian employment?

This video explains the original Agniveer model, the four-year tenure, the 25% retention provision, the 75% exit system and the Seva Nidhi package. We then look at the latest announced changes, including the proposed additional two years of service, changes in the recruitment testing sequence, and skill certificates recognising experience gained during military service. Watch the full explainer to understand what has changed in the Agniveer scheme and what it could mean for thousands of young defence aspirants and serving Agniveers.