Raghav Chadha writes to Rajnath Singh on Agnipath, says stop this 'trial by fire' of youth

Rajya Sabha member Raghav Chadha wrote a letter to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on the roll-back and re-deliberation of the Agnipath/tour of duty scheme which was announced by the Center on June 14.

In his letter Chadha mentioned that the recent modification in the scheme has justifiably caused the anguish among the potential recruits. And the government should stop the trial by fire of youth.



Indian armed force is known for the highest standards of professionalism and service long traditions and ethos but the controversial 'contractualization' of the armed forces scheme by army has stifled the dreams of many young aspirants.

Chadha also highlighted the key five issues in the scheme according to him in his letter.

Firstly, that armed forces need jawan with peace of mind and job security. "An ill motivated solider is certainly an avoidable proposition”, Chadha.

“In this scheme a jawan will always be contemplating his career moves or wondering how his family will survive after his tenure is over”, Chadha wrote.

Secondly, the scheme has overlooked the issues if inadequate skilling.

Third, the union government financial obligation towards the defence pension bill should not be offset by sacrificing the job security of the jawans.

“We cannot shy away from our responsibly to give those who protect our borders a life of dignity. The scheme negates regimental honor and rides the quality if our troops.”

Fifth, a consultative exercise should have followed after running a pilot scheme. Experimental schemes like Agnipath should not be imposed in mass.

He also mentioned that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP ) Chief Arvind Kejrival has also urged the government to roll back the Agnipath scheme in a permanent manner not a temporary basis.

The roll back will give sufficient time to the government to rethink and consult the aspirants who have been affected the most by this sudden decision.