New Delhi: The Indian Army is reportedly gearing up for a significant shift in its personnel strategy, with discussions underway to potentially retain up to 75 percent of Agniveers after the completion of their four-year service term. Currently, the policy allows for only 25 percent of Agniveers to be absorbed into the regular force, but indications suggest that this quota could see a substantial increase.
This deliberation comes as the first batch of Agniveers prepares to complete their tenure next year, prompting the Army to initiate discussions on retention policies. The matter is expected to feature prominently at the upcoming Army Commanders’ Conference in Jaisalmer, a high-level platform where strategic decisions on national security and operational preparedness are debated. The conference will also review the implementation of key initiatives like Mission Sudarshan Chakra and explore measures to strengthen coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The Jaisalmer conference is the first major gathering of Army Commanders after the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, reflecting the force’s focus on adapting to evolving threats and operational challenges. One of the key considerations is leveraging the experience, skills, and expertise of ex-servicemen, whose numbers are steadily rising.
Currently, retired personnel primarily contribute in limited capacities through institutions such as the Army Welfare Education Society and Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) polyclinics. The proposed changes aim to expand their roles, enabling them to take on more active positions across the service, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and continuity.
If implemented, this move could mark one of the most substantial shifts in the Army’s human resource policy in recent years, reflecting a broader strategy to retain trained manpower while integrating ex-servicemen more deeply into the defense ecosystem.