New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has received more than 94000 applications within 4 days of the registration process started under the new Agnipath scheme launched by the Central Government. The Twitter handle of Defence Ministry Spokesperson A Bharat Bhushan Babu said, “A total of 94,281 Agniveer Vayu aspirants have registered till 10.30 am (Monday). Registration closes on July 5”.
After being opposed by all the opposition parties in Parliament and reportedly by the youths around the country since its announcement on June 14, the scheme is finally getting a positive response. The scheme allows youths above 17-and-a-half and 23 years (earlier 21 years) to apply wherein they will be inducted for a four-year tenure. Consequently, 25% of them will be retained for regular service.
To curb the widespread anger against the scheme since its announcement, the Government promised preferential jobs for Agniveers in Central Paramilitary forces and defence PSUs on retirement. Further, State police forces of BJP-ruled states will also prioritize the youths in recruitment once the four-year tenure is completed.
Meanwhile, the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force made it clear that those indulging in violence and protests against the said scheme won’t be entertained.