The life of an Agniveer in the Indian Army, part of the Agnipath recruitment scheme, is a rigorous and disciplined one. The scheme, which recruits young soldiers for a four-year term, offers a range of experiences. Here's an overview of the key aspects:
1. Lifestyle in the Indian Army
Discipline: The lifestyle is structured and disciplined, with strict routines and a high level of commitment. Agniveers must adhere to the military code of conduct, punctuality, and orderliness.
Training: Agniveers undergo extensive military training, which focuses on physical fitness, drills, weapon handling, and combat tactics. They are trained to be agile, resilient, and combat-ready.
Accommodation: Agniveers live in barracks with their fellow soldiers. Accommodation is basic but functional, with a strong sense of camaraderie among the troops.
Leave: Limited but regular leave is granted, allowing soldiers to visit their families during certain intervals.
2. Food
Quality and Nutrition: Soldiers in the Indian Army, including Agniveers, are provided nutritious meals designed to meet the caloric and dietary needs of physically demanding tasks. Meals typically include:
Rice or chapati
Lentils (dal)
Vegetables
Meat or eggs for non-vegetarians
Dairy products like milk or curd
Rations: Meals are often prepared in army messes. During field operations, soldiers receive pre-packaged rations that are easy to carry and consume.
Special Dietary Plans: For high-intensity training, soldiers may be provided with additional nutritional supplements such as energy bars, protein, etc.
3. Exercise and Physical Fitness
Daily Regimen: Physical fitness is a crucial part of an Agniveer's life. A typical day involves early morning physical training, which includes:
Running (often 5-10 km)
Strength training (push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups)
Endurance exercises
Combat drills and obstacle courses
Specialized Training: Depending on their assigned role, Agniveers might also receive specialized physical and combat training, such as survival skills, mountain warfare, or jungle combat.
4. Salary and Financial Benefits
Salary: The pay structure for Agniveers is standardized as follows:
1st year: ₹30,000 per month
2nd year: ₹33,000 per month
3rd year: ₹36,500 per month
4th year: ₹40,000 per month
In-hand Salary: After deductions (like Provident Fund), the in-hand salary comes down to around 70% of the gross pay.
Seva Nidhi Package: After the four-year service, an Agniveer is provided with a one-time lump sum of approximately ₹11.71 lakh (tax-free), which includes their contribution to the Provident Fund and interest accrued.
Additional Allowances: Depending on where they are posted, Agniveers might also receive allowances such as hardship pay, field duty allowances, and more.
5. Post-Service Opportunities
Permanent Enrolment: After the completion of the four-year tenure, about 25% of Agniveers will be retained in the regular cadre of the Indian Armed Forces based on their performance, availability, and need.
Skills and Training: Even for those not retained, the skills acquired during their service can open up opportunities in both public and private sectors. The government has also announced priority in various jobs for Agniveers after their tenure.
6. Camaraderie and Morale
Agniveers build strong bonds with their fellow soldiers, fostering a sense of brotherhood. The army focuses on developing not just physical strength but also emotional resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Life in the army instills a sense of pride, patriotism, and loyalty to the nation.
Overall, the life of an Agniveer in the Indian Army is challenging yet rewarding, offering personal growth, financial benefits, and valuable life experiences.
2 окт 2024
