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BJP Dares Rahul To Select CM Face In Haryana From Backward Class

August 2, 2024, 12:36 am

Senior BJP leader Satish Poonia, who is in-charge of Haryana, on Thursday challenged Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi to select a common man from a backward class as Congress party’s chief ministerial candidate in Haryana.

Poonia said the BJP has taken a significant step by declaring Nayab Singh Saini, an ordinary man from the OBC (Other Backward Class) community, as its CM face. This move, Poonia said, demonstrates the BJP’s dedication to advancing individuals from marginalised communities into positions of leadership.

In an exclusive interaction with the Daily Guardian, Poonia said his challenge to Rahul Gandhi is based on in Gandhi’s emphasis on caste census and the uplift of backward classes. Poonia argued that Gandhi’s actions should reflect his rhetoric and asked whether he is prepared to make similarly bold decisions within his own party.
Poonia’s comments come amid the ongoing political debate over caste representation and broader issues of social justice and leadership in politics.
Poonia alleged that Rahul Gandhi’s strategies are not aimed at uplifting the backward classes, rather, they serve to confuse them.

Arguing that Gandhi shows no genuine concern for these communities, he said neither the Congress nor its chief ministers belong to ordinary workers. He accused Gandhi and the Opposition of misleading the public during the Lok Sabha elections with falsehoods such as ending reservations through Constitutional changes.
Poonia strongly defended the Agnipath scheme and accused the Opposition of misleading the youth with false claims. Poonia said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently advocated for Agniveer Scheme to maintain a youthful Army. He accused the Congress and the Opposition of concealing the facts about the scheme.

Poonia said there have been no change in the number of permanent recruitments in the Army. While 500 permanent positions remain unchanged, an additional 1,000 Agniveer recruits are added, resulting in a total of 1,500 soldiers being inducted, he said. This arrangement provides employment to 1,000 youth for four years. After their service, Agniveers will receive a 10% reservation in paramilitary forces, with BJP-ruled states also offering similar reservations in government jobs.

Poonia noted that Haryana has already implemented the reservation and private companies are also considering hiring Agniveers. He emphasised that the discipline and training from the Army will make Agniveers highly employable in both government and private sectors.
According to Poonia, the Agniveer scheme presents significant employment opportunities, and no Agniveer who has served four years in the Army will be left unemployed. He reassured that all details about facilities and benefits have been provided by the Army and the defense minister, urging the public not to be swayed by the Opposition’s deceptive politics.

Poonia asserted that despite Congress’s attempts, the party is unlikely to win in Haryana. He said the people of Haryana will elect the BJP to form the government for the third time with a substantial majority.
He alleged Congress has always engaged in divisive politics, and Gan

BJP-Ruled States Offer Job Reservations For Agniveers Amid Criticism Of Agnipath Scheme

July 27, 2024, 6:08 pm

As the BJP-led government faces criticism over the Agnipath scheme, several BJP-ruled states are stepping up to support it by offering job reservations for Agniveers (those who have served under the scheme) in state jobs.

Support from BJP-ruled States

मुख्यमंत्री श्री भजनलाल शर्मा ने कहा कि प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र मोदी की दृढ़ इच्छाशक्ति से देश की सेना को सशक्त बनाने का संकल्प अग्निपथ योजना के माध्यम से पूर्ण हो रहा है। उन्होंने कहा कि राजस्थान सरकार भी अग्निवीरों हेतु राज्य के पुलिस विभाग, जेल प्रहरी व वन रक्षक भर्ती में… pic.twitter.com/YuWrWcqFhK

— CMO Rajasthan (@RajCMO) July 27, 2024

Several states have announced reservations for Agniveers. Rajasthan will provide job reservations for Agniveers in the state police, jail guard, and forest guard positions. However, the exact percentage of reservation was not disclosed. Arunachal Pradesh will offer training to local youths for recruitment under Agnipath and give retired Agniveers preference in the state’s police, emergency, and fire services.

The Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh will facilitate training for local youths to prepare them for recruitment as Agniveers under the AGNIPATH Scheme.

Additionally, retired Agniveers from Arunachal Pradesh will be given preference in recruitment for the Arunachal Pradesh Police, AP… pic.twitter.com/yMmi5g8BMI

— Pema Khandu པདྨ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་། (@PemaKhanduBJP) July 26, 2024

Other States Announce Similar Measures

Earlier, BJP-led states such as Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha also announced reservations for Agniveers.

– Uttar Pradesh: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that Agniveers will get priority for jobs in the police service and the Pradeshik Armed Constabulary (PAC).

अग्निवीर जब अपनी सेवा के बाद वापस आएंगे, उत्तर प्रदेश सरकार पुलिस सेवा में, पीएसी में इन नौजवानों को प्राथमिकता के आधार पर समायोजन की सुविधा देगी।

उनके लिए एक निश्चित आरक्षण की सुविधा उत्तर प्रदेश पुलिस में उपलब्ध कराएंगे… pic.twitter.com/7T5VorcpVa

— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) July 26, 2024

– Madhya Pradesh: Chief Minister Mohan Yadav revealed that his government would provide reservations for Agniveers in police and armed forces recruitment.

आज कारगिल दिवस के अवसर पर हमारी सरकार ने निर्णय किया है कि यशस्वी प्रधानमंत्री श्री @narendramodi जी की मंशानुसार अग्निवीर जवानों को पुलिस एवं सशस्त्र बलों की भर्ती में आरक्षण दिया जाएगा। #KargilVijayDiwas #DrMohanYadav #CMMadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/HSrT2Qkyvg

— Dr Mohan Yadav (@DrMohanYadav51) July 26, 2024

– Uttarakhand: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami pledged to create provisions for Agniveers in government services, emphasizing the use of their skills and discipline.

आदरणीय प्रधानमंत्री जी आपकी दृढ़ इच्छाशक्ति से ही देश की सेना को सशक्त बनाने का संकल्प अग्निपथ योजना के माध्यम से पूर्ण हो रहा है। आपके कुशल नेतृत्व में केंद्र सरकार द्वारा सदैव राष्ट्र प्रथम की भावना से निर्णय लिए गए हैं और अग्निपथ योजना इसका प्रमुख उदाहरण है।

प्रदेश सरकार भी… https://t.co/Zaxy4QHHfa

— Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) July 26, 2024

– Odisha: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a 10% quota and a five-year age relaxation for Agniveers in uniformed services.

Haryana has also joined in, offering 10% reservation for Agniveers in various state positions.

Central Government’s Support

The Home Ministry has announced a 10% reservation and a three-year age relaxation for Agniveers in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Assam Rifles. Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed these changes, adding that the first batch of Agniveers would receive a five-year age relaxation.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) decides to reserve 10% vacancies for recruitment in CAPFs and Assam Rifles for Agniveers.

— गृहमंत्री कार्यालय, HMO India (@HMOIndia) June 18, 2022

Opposition Criticism

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has vowed to cancel the Agnipath scheme within 24 hours if his party comes to power. He criticized the scheme for compromising national security and the future of soldiers.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also criticized the scheme, arguing that it undermines the quality of military training by allowing soldiers to serve for only 3-4 years after just six months of training.

सत्ता में आते ही 24 घंटे में रद्द होगी, देश के सुरक्षा से समझौता करनेवाली और सैनिकों के भविष्य से खिलवाड़ करनेवाली अल्पकालिक ‘अग्निवीर’ सैन्य भर्ती।

‘अग्निवीर’ पर यही माँग हमारी
पुरानी भर्ती की फिर हो बहाली pic.twitter.com/UiETODhWiH

— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) July 27, 2024

PM Modi’s Defense

Prime Minister Narendra Modi defended the Agnipath scheme during the Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrations, describing it as a necessary reform to keep the military youthful and fit for war. He dismissed claims that the scheme was designed to cut pension costs and emphasized that the goal is to address the aging issue within the Indian armed forces.

#WATCH | On the Agnipath scheme, PM Narendra Modi says, “I don’t know what has happened to the thinking of some people. They are spreading the misconception that the government has come up with this scheme to save pension money… For today’s recruits, the question of pension… pic.twitter.com/vnEWy2YhDC

— ANI (@ANI) July 26, 2024

Kharge Accuses PM Modi Of Doing Petty Politics

July 26, 2024, 11:32 pm

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his comments on the grand old party on the ‘25 year of Kargil Vijay Diwas’ accusing him of doing petty politics and said no Prime Minister has ever done this before.
Hitting back at the Prime Minister, he also urged the government to scrap the Agnipath scheme as it has been opposed by sever quarters.

In a post on X, while slamming the Prime Minister, Kharge, who is also the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said, “It is very unfortunate and deplorable that Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji is doing petty politics even on occasions like paying tribute to martyrs on Kargil Vijay Diwas.”

“No Prime Minister has ever done this before,” he said.
Taking a swipe at the Prime Minister, the Congress chief said, “Modi ji is saying that his government implemented the Agnipath scheme at the behest of the Army, this is a blatant lie and an unforgivable insult to our valiant Armed Forces.”

Training his guns, he said, “Modi ji, it is you who are spreading lies!” He said that former Army Chief (Retd.) General MM Naravane has said on record that 75 per cent of recruits were to be taken for permanency in the ‘Agnipath Scheme’ and 25 per cent of people were to be let go after four years. “But the Modi government did the opposite, and forcibly implemented this scheme for all three Armed Forces,” he said.He claimed that according to news reports, former Army Chief (Retd) General MM Naravane in his book which the Modi government, has stalled from being published, has also said, that the ‘Agnipath Scheme’ was shocking for the Army, and for the Navy and Air Force, it came like a “bolt out of the blue”.“Are we creating professional soldiers, only by 6 months of training? Soldiers join the Army out of patriotism, not to earn a living,” he said. Kharge also said that many retired officers have strongly criticised Agnipath and said that it is endangering National Security and the aspirations of the rural youth, demanding that this scheme should be completely scrapped.

Agnipath: A Necessary Army Reform, Says PM Modi, Criticizes Opposition for Misleading Youth

July 26, 2024, 12:57 pm

During his address in Kargil on Friday, marking the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the significance of the Agnipath scheme. This occasion served as a platform for the Prime Minister to highlight the scheme’s aim of rejuvenating the Army and maintaining its readiness for combat, addressing long-standing calls for substantial military reforms.

PM Modi stated, “The country has felt the need for major reforms in the defence sector for decades. The army has been demanding this for years, but unfortunately, it was not given enough importance earlier. The Agnipath scheme is also an example of the necessary reforms done in the Army. For decades, discussions have been going on in Parliament and many committees on making the army young.”

He criticized those who mislead the youth, emphasizing their disregard for soldiers and pointing to previous administrations’ minimal allocation for the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme. “Those who are misleading the youth of the country. Their history is proof that they don’t care about soldiers. These are the same people who lied on OROP by showing a meagre amount of Rs 500 crore. It is our government that implemented the charges. More than Rs 1.25 lakh crore was given to ex-servicemen,” PM Modi said.

Addressing the concern of the Indian soldiers’ average age being higher than the global norm, PM Modi noted that the Agnipath scheme effectively tackles this issue. “The average age of Indian soldiers being more than the global average has been a cause of concern. That is why this issue has also been raised in many committees for years. However, the will to solve this challenge related to the security of the country was not shown earlier. The country has addressed this concern through the Agneepath scheme.”

PM Modi also stressed the true meaning of the Army’s role, beyond mere ceremonial duties, emphasizing its importance to the 140 crore citizens of India. “Some people used to think that the Army means saluting politicians, doing parades but for us, the Army means the faith of 140 crore countrymen. The goal of Agneepath is to make the army young. The goal of Agneepath is to keep the army continuously fit for war.”

Furthermore, he condemned the opposition for politicizing a sensitive issue related to national security. “Unfortunately, some people have made such a sensitive issue related to national security a subject of politics. Some people are doing politics of lies for their benefit, even on this reform of the army. These are the same people who weakened our army by committing scams worth thousands of crores in the army, who wanted the Air Force to never get modern fighter jets, who had made preparations to scrap the Tejas fighter plane.”

PM Modi highlighted the extensive reforms in the defence sector over the past decade, which have enhanced the capabilities and self-reliance of the armed forces. “In the last 10 years, we have made defence reforms a top priority in the defence sector. Due to these reforms, our armies are now more capable and becoming self-reliant! Today, a significant share of defence procurement is being given to the Indian defence industry. Additionally, 25 per cent of the research and development budget in defence has been reserved for the private sector. As a result of these steps, India’s defence production has now exceeded Rs. 1.25 lakh crore.”

The Prime Minister also virtually initiated the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel project in Kargil. This 4.1-kilometre twin-tube tunnel, set to be the highest in the world, will provide all-weather connectivity to Leh, boosting both military logistics and regional development.

In addition, PM Modi paid homage to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1999 Kargil War by laying a wreath at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, Ladakh. Kargil Vijay Diwas, celebrated annually on July 26, honors the successful Operation Vijay, where Indian forces reclaimed strategic positions in the Kargil sector from Pakistani infiltrators.

Indian Army Enrolls One Lakh Agniveers: Top Officer Provides Update

July 22, 2024, 12:31 am

Amid ongoing discussions about the Agnipath policy for recruiting into the Indian armed forces, a senior Indian Army officer announced that around one lakh Agniveers have joined the force since the scheme’s inception.

Lieutenant General Channira Bansi Ponnappa, the army’s Adjutant General, shared that the scheme, launched in June 2022, saw its first batch recruited and enrolled by December 2022-January 2023. “Approximately one lakh Agniveers have been enrolled in the army, including around 200 women. Of these, about 70,000 recruits have been dispatched to their units and are performing exceptionally well. This includes around 100 female police personnel too,” he told news agency ANI.

Lieutenant General Ponnappa also mentioned that 50,000 vacancies have been released for the current 2024-25 cycle, with the recruitment process ongoing.

Addressing concerns raised by opposition parties, the senior officer dismissed the claim that Agnipath has created ‘two different classes’ of soldiers. “Agniveers undertake all actions – operational and professional duties – just like other sepoys or sepoy recruits on the ground. They are completely integrated into the units. They wear the same uniform and perform the same duties,” he emphasized.

The Agnipath scheme is a short-service recruitment policy where aspirants, called ‘Agniveers’, are inducted into the armed forces for four years. Both male and female aspirants aged 17.5 to 21 years are eligible. After four years, up to 25% of a retiring batch may be selected for the permanent cadre. Additionally, quotas have been announced for retirees in various central and state government services, including the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).

The ruling BJP’s recent poor performance in some northern states, which traditionally contribute a large number of youths to the armed forces, has been partly attributed to the Agnipath scheme. A BJP ally has already called for a review of the policy.

This development highlights the significant changes in the Indian armed forces’ recruitment strategies and the ongoing efforts to integrate new recruits seamlessly into the military structure

Agnipath Scheme To Remain; Adjustments Expected In Upcoming Budget

July 14, 2024, 2:38 pm

The four-year Agnipath scheme for armed forces service may see changes in the Union Budget or later to enhance its appeal.

Despite opposition protests, the Union government views the scheme as an effective way to improve the youth profile of the armed forces while addressing rising defense pension liabilities, according to two sources familiar with government discussions.

Under this scheme, men and women aged 17.5 to 21 years are recruited below the officer rank in the three armed services, receiving optimized basic military training along with specialized trade training. The scheme allows for the absorption of one-fourth of these recruits, known as Agniveers, into the permanent cadre.

The armed forces have approximately three million retirees, many of whom served in short service commissions, resulting in shorter active service periods and relatively long pension durations for many service professionals.

For FY25, the government has allotted ₹1.41 trillion for defense pensions, accounting for almost one-fourth of the total ₹6.2 trillion defense budget.

Rahul Gandhi Raises Concerns Over Agniveer Scheme During Parliament Session

July 1, 2024, 3:30 pm

In the ongoing Parliament session, Rahul Gandhi remarked on the Agniveer scheme for entry into the Armed Forces, noting that one Agniveer had tragically lost his life in a landmine blast. He pointed out that this individual was not acknowledged as a ‘martyr’, emphasizing that ‘Agniveer’ seemed to be viewed as a disposable labourer.

Speaking on the Agniveer scheme for entry into Armed Forces, LoP Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi says, “One Agniveer lost his life in a landmine blast but he is not called a ‘martyr’… ‘Agniveer’ is a use & throw labourer…”

#WATCH | Speaking on the Agniveer scheme for entry into Armed Forces, LoP Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi says, "One Agniveer lost his life in a landmine blast but he is not called a 'martyr'… 'Agniveer' is a use & throw labourer…" pic.twitter.com/9mItAlHS72

— ANI (@ANI) July 1, 2024

Under the Agnipath scheme, individuals aged between 17.5 and 21 years will be enlisted in the military branch of their choice for a period of four years. Following this term, 25% of the Agniveers will be retained, while the remaining 75% will be allowed to transition back to civilian life. The introduction of this scheme, which has sparked nationwide protests from armed forces aspirants, has led to concerns about the future prospects of Agniveers after completing their four-year service.

Agnipath Scheme: What Is It, Why The Criticism, And Why A Review Is Demanded?

June 9, 2024, 5:07 pm

The Agnipath scheme, introduced by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government in June 2022, has faced significant opposition from political parties and Armed Forces veterans. The scheme’s contentious nature became a central issue in the election campaigns of the INDIA bloc in key states such as Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan. These states have a high number of individuals aspiring for careers in the Armed Forces, making the Agnipath scheme a critical electoral issue.

The BJP’s performance in these states suggests that opposition to the scheme resonated with the electorate. This backlash has now extended to crucial BJP allies, including Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and Chirag Paswan’s Lok Janshakti Party, who are demanding a review of the scheme. With the BJP falling short of a majority in the Lok Sabha, the calls from these alliance partners for a reassessment of the Agnipath scheme add pressure on the government to reconsider its stance.

What Is Agnipath Scheme?

The Agnipath scheme targets recruits aged 17.5 to 23 years, expanding the upper age limit from the previous 21. These recruits, known as ‘Agniveers,’ serve for four years. After this period, up to 25% of them may be offered permanent positions, extending their service by 15 years based on merit and organizational needs. This scheme opened new opportunities for women in the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Navy.

Agniveers receive a monthly salary ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000, plus risk and hardship allowances. They contribute 30% of their salary to the Seva Nidhi fund, matched by the government, resulting in a lump sum of approximately Rs 11.71 lakhs at the end of their service, tax-free. In case of death or disability, substantial compensation is provided to their families.

How Is It Different From Regular Military Services?

A significant change introduced by Agnipath is the absence of pensions for Agniveers, except for the 25% who continue beyond the initial four years. This measure aims to reduce the Armed Forces’ permanent personnel and, consequently, the defence pension bill—a long-standing concern for the government.

Why Was Agnipath Scheme Introduced?

The government has touted Agnipath as a means to create a younger, more dynamic Armed Forces. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described it as a transformative initiative to modernize the forces. The scheme aims to lower the average age of military personnel from 32 to 26 years.

Additionally, the government argues that Agniveers, post-service, will contribute positively to society with their acquired skills and discipline, potentially boosting economic productivity and GDP growth. Support mechanisms, such as skill certificates and bridge courses, have been promised to assist Agniveers in transitioning to civilian careers.

Why The Opposition Criticizes The Agnipath Scheme?

The scheme has faced strong opposition. Critics argue that Agnipath creates a tier of soldiers with inferior pay, benefits, and career prospects compared to those in full commission. This perceived inequality has fueled discontent, particularly among those who view military service as a means to economic stability.

Political figures, including Rahul Gandhi, have voiced concerns about the discriminatory nature of the scheme. Multiple parties, such as Congress, AAP, RJD, and Samajwadi Party, have demanded its repeal.

Government’s Stance On The Scheme

The government has signaled a willingness to modify the scheme, provided it does not compromise the objective of maintaining a youthful Armed Forces. An internal assessment by the military services is underway to evaluate the scheme’s impact, with recommendations to be submitted to the Department of Military Affairs.

Recruitment Statistics

So far, the Army has trained two batches of 40,000 Agniveers, with a third batch of 20,000 currently in training. The Navy has completed training for three batches totaling 7,385 Agniveers, while the IAF has trained 4,955 Agniveers..

How Are PM Modi’s Agnipath Reforms Reshaping India’s Military?

May 9, 2024, 3:56 pm

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has embarked on a transformative journey in its defense strategy, marked by the “Agnipath” reforms that signify a paradigm shift in the nation’s military architecture.

Establishment of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)

The creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) position in December 2019 marked a pivotal moment in India’s defense structure. General Bipin Rawat’s appointment as the first CDS ushered in an era of strategic coordination and joint decision-making across the armed forces.

Department of Military Affairs

A cornerstone of the reforms was the establishment of the Department of Military Affairs, a unique initiative aimed at streamlining bureaucratic processes and empowering the CDS on critical defense matters. This departmental framework has brought greater efficiency and cohesion to defense planning and execution.

Theaterisation and Joint Theatre Commands

One of the most significant aspects of the reforms is the concept of theaterisation, which involves integrating Army, Navy, and Air Force units under unified command structures. This move towards joint theatre commands signifies a strategic realignment aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and synergy among the armed forces.

Response to Controversies

Recent controversies, such as the misinformation surrounding financial assistance to martyrs’ families, have showcased the robustness of the Agnipath scheme and the government’s unwavering support for its armed forces personnel. Clear communication and comprehensive support mechanisms have underscored the commitment to honoring sacrifices and ensuring the well-being of military families.

Future Outlook and Strategic Implications

As India continues its defense modernization journey, guided by PM Modi’s vision of “India First,” the reforms initiated under Agnipath are set to shape the nation’s security landscape for years to come. The evolution towards joint theatre commands and enhanced military capabilities reflects a forward-looking approach anchored in strategic foresight and national security imperatives.

The Agnipath reforms under PM Modi’s leadership herald a new era of strategic defense for India, characterized by inter-services coordination, operational synergy, and a relentless focus on national security. These reforms not only strengthen India’s defense capabilities but also reinforce its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and interests on the global stage.

Delhi HC upholds validity of Centre’s Agnipath Scheme, dismisses all pleas

February 27, 2023, 6:35 pm

The High Court of Delhi on Monday dismissed the batch of petitions challenging the Agnipath scheme to seek the resumption and enrollment as per the previous recruitment scheme in defence services of India.

While passing the judgement, a bench of judges headed by the Chief Justice of Delhi said that, “The scheme is made in the national interest and to ensure that armed forces are better equipped.”

The Chief Justice, Satish Chandra Sharma, who headed the bench which comprised of Justice Subramonium Prasad on Monday, February 27, upheld the central government’s Agnipath Scheme. They furthermore said that they didn’t find any reason to interfere in the said scheme. Notably, the scheme is a major paradigm shift in the recuritement process of defence personnel.

Indian Railways suffer Rs 259.44 crore loss, says Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav

July 22, 2022, 6:35 pm

The Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav on Friday said in Parliament that there was a loss of Rs 259.44 crore to railway property due to the protests against the Agnipath scheme.

In a written reply to a question asked by Congress leader Akhilesh Prasad Singh in the Rajya Sabha, Ashwini said that 2132 trains were cancelled between June 15 and June 23 due to protests across the country against the “Agnipath scheme” of short-term recruitment in the Armed Forces. Railway Minister informed that during the period from 14th June 2022 to 30th June 2022, a refund of about Rs.102.96 crore has been granted.

“A separate data regarding the amount of refund granted to passengers due to disruption of rail services on account of public disorder consequent to agitation like those held after launching of Agnipath scheme is not maintained,” said Ashwini.

Talking about the investigation Ashwini said, “Cases of damage, destruction of government property including railway property are restored and investigated by the concerned GRP and State Police under IPC and Railways Act.”

However, he further added that there was a loss of Rs 259.44 crore to railway property due to the protests. At present, all the affected train services, which were cancelled due to the protest against the Agnipath scheme, have been restored.

Supreme Court transfers petitions challenging Agnipath scheme to Delhi High Court

July 19, 2022, 2:27 pm

The Supreme Court transferred the petitions against the Agnipath scheme brought by the Central Government to the Delhi High Court on Tuesday.

A bench of Justices DY Chandrachud, Surya Kant and JB Pardiwala passed the order on three petitions filed under Article 32 of the Constitution, out of which two were public interest litigations, and one petition was for seeking selection in the Air Force.

The Supreme Court refused to transfer the cases pending in different High Courts across the country. The concerned High courts either give an option to the petitioners to either have their petitions transferred to the Delhi High Court or to keep their petitions pending. The court also requested the Delhi High court to take up the matter and dispose of it expeditiously.

The court said that the cases are pending in the High Courts of Patna, Punjab and Haryana, Uttarakhand and Kerala; the High Court should transfer these matters to the Delhi High Court, if the petitioner does not want to do so, then keep the case pending. The Supreme Court has also asked the Delhi High Court to take a quick decision in this matter.

Advocate Harsh Ajay Singh and Advocate ML Sharma filed the PIL. Moreover, Advocate ML Sharma called the Agnipath scheme “illegal and unconstitutional”.

Earlier on June 14, the cabinet approved the Agnipath scheme to change the recruitment process in Armed Forces. Despite facing criticism, the ruling party decided to bring change in the upper age limit for recruiting Agniveers.

However, under this, the youth will get employment and an opportunity to serve the country. Talking about the scheme, the Defense Minister said this would give youth experience and open up new employment opportunities.