Complete Guide to Understanding the Agnipath Initiative

Recruitment and Service Duration:

• Agnipath recruits, known as Agniveers, join the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy for a four-year service period, which includes training.
• After four years, 25% of Agniveers are permanently absorbed into the Indian Army.

Salary Structure:

• Agniveers receive a stipend that increases annually:
  • First year: Rs 30,000 per month
  • Second year: Rs 33,000 per month
  • Third year: Rs 36,500 per month
  • Fourth year: Rs 40,000 per month
• They contribute 30% of their salary to a service fund (Seva Nidhi), matched by a government contribution.

Benefits and Insurance:

• Life Insurance: Agniveers have a non-contributory life insurance cover of Rs 48 lakhs.
• Ex-gratia Payment: In case of death during service, an additional ex-gratia amount of Rs 44 lakhs is provided to the family.
• Service Fund: The accumulated amount in the service fund is also provided to the family in case of death.
• Injury Compensation: If an Agniveer suffers an injury during service, the family receives the remaining salary for the duty period along with insurance benefits.

Additional Financial Support:

• Funeral Expenses: Rs 9,000 for funeral expenses.
• Army Central Welfare Fund: Rs 8 lakhs for welfare purposes.
• State Financial Assistance: Several states offer additional financial assistance to the families of martyred Agniveers.
• Disability Compensation: Agniveers are eligible for compensation based on the percentage of disability assessed by medical authorities.