Ex-Agniveers to Benefit from 50% Reservation in CAPFs and Assam Rifles

Central Government's New Reservation Policy

The Central Government has introduced a significant policy change, offering a 50% reservation for Ex-Agniveers in the roles of Constable (General Duty) and Rifleman within the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Assam Rifles. This initiative aims to facilitate easier access to government employment for Ex-Agniveers. On Tuesday, the government announced in Parliament that half of the available positions for Constable (General Duty) and Rifleman in various forces, including CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, and Assam Rifles, will be reserved for these individuals.

Understanding Agniveers

**Who are Agniveers?**

The 'Agnipath Scheme' was launched by the Central Government in 2022, under which young recruits are termed Agniveers. These individuals serve in the armed forces for a limited period of four years. After this tenure, 25% are retained in the regular cadre, while the remaining 75% are released, becoming known as Ex-Agniveers.

Highlights of the Agnipath Scheme

**Key Features:**

1. Eligible candidates must be between 17.5 and 21 years old.

2. Selected individuals undergo six months of military training.

3. After service, Agniveers receive the 'Seva Nidhi' package along with other benefits.

4. Ex-Agniveers are prioritized in various job recruitments by the Central and state governments.

5. They are also given advantages in recruitment for CAPFs, Assam Rifles, and select state police forces.

Benefits for Ex-Agniveers in CAPFs

Ex-Agniveers will enjoy several advantages under the reservation policy in CAPFs. Notably, they will not be required to take a written examination. Furthermore, they will be exempt from the Physical Standard Test (PST) and the Physical Efficiency Test (PET). To qualify for the Constable (GD) or Rifleman roles, ex-Agniveers must fulfill the educational qualifications and other criteria, with eligibility limited to those who have completed four years of service in the Army. Special provisions will also be available for Agniveers from the inaugural batch.

Special Provisions for the First Batch

Candidates from the first batch of ex-Agniveers will receive a five-year age relaxation beyond the maximum limit. They will also be exempt from the PST, PET, and written examination requirements.

Details on Reservation

Reservations are allocated across various forces under the CAPF umbrella, including BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, and Assam Rifles. Comprehensive details regarding the reservation will be included in the recruitment notifications, which candidates are encouraged to review thoroughly before applying.

Conclusion

This reservation initiative is anticipated to significantly aid ex-Agniveers in their pursuit of employment opportunities.