Admiral R. Hari Kumar, chief of the naval staff
You called Agnipath transformational. Could you explain how it can transform the armed forces?
There are four reasons. First, the scheme will reduce the average age of our services by about four to five years. This youthful profile, in itself, is a transformative change that we have been seeking for a considerable time, especially following the Kargil Review Committee recommendations. Second, Agnipath will enhance our combat readiness and operational effectiveness by tapping into our technologically savvy youth. The infusion of a greater number of Agniveers each year will give us an edge in rapidly evolving and technologically intense conflicts. Third, this scheme will lead to an optimal mix of a youthful cadre and experience. The permanent cadre would consist of experienced personnel enrolled after four years of service. The youthful cadre, serving for four years, will form the rank and file. Fourth, with a steady stream of trained, disciplined, skilled and motivated Agniveers joining the national workforce, the scheme will play a vital role in the growth, prosperity and transformation of our nation.
The concern is about the 75 per cent who have to leave after four years. They would get preference in the paramilitary and police. But, the annual intake of these forces is not more than a few thousand personnel. Moreover, their training and operational philosophy are different from that of the armed forces.
This story is from the July 10, 2022 edition of THE WEEK India.
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This story is from the July 10, 2022 edition of THE WEEK India.
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