Agnipath scheme is not about saving money: PM Narendra Modi attacks Opposition for spreading lies

On the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed criticisms of the Agnipath scheme, rejecting allegations that it was intended to save pension funds. Speaking at Kargil, Modi stressed that the primary aim of the Agnipath scheme is to modernize and rejuvenate the armed forces.

PM Modi Defends Agnipath Scheme

During his visit, PM Modi stated, “The goal of Agneepath is to make the army young.…The goal of Agneepath is to keep the army continuously fit for war. Unfortunately, some people have made such a sensitive issue related to national security a subject of politics. Some people are doing politics of lies for their personal benefit even on this reform of the army. These are the same people who weakened our army by committing scams worth thousands of crores in the army.”



"The Agnipath scheme is an example of crucial reforms initiated by the Indian Army. For decades, discussions in Parliament and various committees have focused on the need to rejuvenate the armed forces. The concern has been growing about the average age of Indian soldiers being higher than the global average," PM Modi said.

"This issue has been raised in numerous committees over the years. However, there was a lack of will to address this challenge related to national security. The Agnipath scheme has been introduced to address this concern by making the armed forces younger and keeping them continuously battle-ready," PM Modi further added.

"The average age of Indian soldiers being more than the global average has been a cause of concern. That is why this issue has also been raised in many committees for years. However, the will to solve this challenge related to the security of the country was not shown earlier. The country has addressed this concern through the Agneepath scheme," he said.

"Some people used to think that the Army means saluting politicians, doing parades but for us, the Army means the faith of 140 crore countrymen. The goal of Agneepath is to make the army young. The goal of Agneepath is to keep the army continuously fit for war," PM Modi added.

PM Modi further emphasised the reforms made in the defence sector during the last 10 years and said, "In the last 10 years, we have made defence reforms a top priority in the defence sector. Due to these reforms, our armies are now more capable and becoming self-reliant!"

"Today, a significant share of defence procurement is being given to the Indian defence industry. Additionally, 25 per cent of the research and development budget in defence has been reserved for the private sector. As a result of these steps, India's defence production has now exceeded Rs. 1.25 lakh crore," he said.

PM Modi visited the Kargil War Memorial on the morning of July 26 to pay tribute to the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Kargil War in 1999. The visit was marked by a tribute from President Droupadi Murmu and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, both of whom honored the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers.

Following his visit to the memorial, PM Modi participated in the virtual inauguration of the first blast at the Shinkun La Tunnel Project. This ambitious project involves constructing a 4.1 km twin-tube tunnel at an altitude of approximately 15,800 feet on the Nimu-Padum-Darcha Road. Once completed, it will be the highest tunnel in the world. The Shinkun La Tunnel aims to improve all-weather connectivity to Leh, enhance military logistics, and stimulate economic and social development in Ladakh.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed annually to commemorate the victory of Indian armed forces in the 1999 Kargil War. The Shinkun La Tunnel Project is a strategic infrastructure development designed to ensure better accessibility and operational efficiency for the Indian Army in the region.

What is the Agnipath/Agniveer Scheme?

The Agnipath Scheme is a new recruitment initiative for the Indian Armed Forces, designed to address various needs within the military. Under this scheme, individuals recruited, known as Agniveers, commit to serving in the Armed Forces for a period of four years.

At the end of their four-year term, Agniveers have the option to apply for permanent positions within the Armed Forces. The scheme offers a pathway for up to 25 percent of Agniveers to be granted permanent roles, contingent on their performance and other criteria.

The Agnipath Scheme has encountered substantial opposition, particularly from the Congress party. Critics argue that Agniveers, upon completing their service, might face unemployment at a relatively young age, potentially impacting their long-term job security and career prospects. There are also concerns about whether Agniveers will be as motivated to undertake dangerous assignments if their service is limited to just four years.