In a setback to the Indian government’s Agnipath Scheme, aimed at enlisting young people in the armed forces, reports have emerged of several trainees leaving the training program prematurely. The scheme, which garnered both positive and negative reception upon its announcement last year, has been marred by the departure of a significant number of trainees from its first batch. The Central government has levied a monetary penalty to deter the candidates from leaving.
According to military officials, more than 50 youths abandoned the Agniveer training midway, raising concerns about the efficacy and commitment of the trainees. Presently, no binding rules or penalties are associated with leaving the Agnipath training prematurely. However, the government is now planning to implement changes to address this issue.
The Central government has decided to introduce a monetary penalty to deter trainees from abandoning the program. Those who leave the training and run away will be charged, and the entire expense incurred on their training will be recouped from them. This measure aims to ensure that only individuals serious about joining the Armed Forces enrol in the Agnipath scheme.
Military officers have cited various reasons for the trainees’ departure. Some individuals left after extended medical leaves, while others claimed to have found better opportunities elsewhere. The exact motivations and circumstances surrounding each case remain diverse.
The Congress party has seized upon this development, launching an attack on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Jairam Ramesh, the General Secretary in charge of Communications for the Congress, took to Twitter to express his criticism. He stated that joining the military and serving the country had traditionally been the aspiration of the youth. Ramesh further contended that the Agnipath scheme’s core foundation was flawed, alleging that the government had crushed the aspirations of young people to serve their nation.
As the first batch of Agniveers prepares to join the Indian Army next month after completing their training, the government faces the challenge of addressing the issue of trainees leaving prematurely. The introduction of a monetary penalty aims to discourage such behaviour and ensure that the Agnipath scheme attracts individuals genuinely committed to serving the country.