Uttarakhand launches training for aspiring Agniveers; Will it help youth secure defence jobs?

With a rich military heritage and families proud of their service records, Uttarakhand is launching free pre-recruitment training for Agniveer aspirants. But how does the Agnipath scheme work and what benefits can candidates expect after joining?

Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced a state-backed initiative to prepare youth for a career in the armed forces under the Agnipath scheme. Emphasising the state’s “glorious military tradition,” Dhami noted that almost every family in Uttarakhand has a member serving or retired from the armed forces.

The government will provide free pre-recruitment training for Agniveer aspirants, helping young men and women from the state improve their physical and written exam readiness. The initiative will be executed by the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare, which has already developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for smooth implementation.

Who Can Apply for the Free Agniveer Training?

To qualify for the government’s free Agniveer training, applicants must meet several requirements:

• Residence: Candidates must be domiciled in Uttarakhand or currently studying/working in an institution within the state.
• Education: A minimum of 45% marks in Class 10, with at least 33% in each subject, is required.
• Age: Minimum age is 16 years at the time of application.
• Registration: Applicants must register at their District Sports Office or District Youth Welfare Office.
• Health: A medical fitness certificate from a registered doctor is mandatory.
• Discipline: Trainees must wear the prescribed sports kit and have no tattoos or unnatural permanent marks on their bodies.

All training will be conducted under the supervision of departmental instructors at designated sports grounds or stadiums.

568 Agniveers joins Indian Army after PoP at MEG

What Is the Agniveer Scheme?

The Agniveer recruitment falls under the Agnipath scheme, launched by the Government of India in 2022. It is a transformative recruitment program for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, allowing young men and women aged 17.5 to 21 years to serve as soldiers for four years.

After completing service, 25% of Agniveers may be retained for regular military roles, while the rest will receive a Seva Nidhi package—a one-time sum of approximately ₹11.7 lakh, tax-free, to support their post-service transition.

Agniveer Salary and Benefits

The salary of an Agniveer varies by year of service:

• 1st Year: Rs 30,000 per month
• 2nd Year: Rs 33,000 per month
• 3rd Year: Rs 36,500 per month
• 4th Year: Rs 40,000 per month

A portion of the salary is contributed to the Seva Nidhi corpus, matched by the government. Agniveers also receive life insurance coverage worth ₹48 lakh and skill development opportunities during their tenure.

How to Apply for Agniveer Recruitment

Candidates can apply online through the official Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force recruitment portals. The process typically includes:

1. Online registration on the relevant defence recruitment website.
2. Written examination (Online Common Entrance Exam).
3. Physical fitness test and medical evaluation.
4. Final selection based on overall merit and eligibility.

Those enrolled in Uttarakhand’s free pre-recruitment training will receive guidance on all these stages.

Government Support After Service

CM Dhami also announced that Agniveers will get reservation in state government jobs after completing their four-year service. This policy aims to ensure employment continuity for veterans while motivating youth to participate in national service.