Agniveer- the Nation’s Asset

There is no doubt in the fact that Agniveers are the vital force of the country and utilizing their services even after the end of their active tenures is not at all a bad idea. In this context, reportedly, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has written to all states to reserve 20 percent jobs for Agniveers for their rehabilitation after they complete their four-year term in 2027, which is a best way out to secure future of these brave-heart soldiers and providing befitting candidates to various sectors in which these young nation builders could be absorbed. Of course, this move by none other than the Home Minister himself is constructive and forward-looking because Agniveers are precisely the perfect candidates for different jobs after receiving disciplined training, gaining leadership qualities and valuable skills such as teamwork, resilience, and time management. Providing them with job opportunities afterward will ensure that the aforesaid abilities of these former men in uniform are effectively utilized in civilian sectors. It is pertinent to mention that the letter by the Home Minister to chief ministers of all states has called for a 20 per cent reservation in positions such as forest guards, mining guards, police constables, firemen, mounted police, jail wardens, Special Police Officers and the state disaster response force. Already Haryana has become the first State to implement reservations for Agniveers in uniformed services while Uttarakhand has also announced reservations for the Agniveers in police and other uniformed services. The reservation for Agniveers will effectively address the concerns about post-service uncertainty, encouraging more individuals to serve without fear of unemployment later. If executed carefully and in a transparent manner, reserving jobs for Agniveers can be a positive policy supporting national service and long-term employment goals. This measure will go a long way in recognizing the yeoman’s services, sacrifice and potential of these true saviours of the nation. One can say that the Home Minister’s step in safeguarding the future of Agniveers will become a sustainable model soon with youth returning to join army as was the case before the introduction of Agniveer Scheme.