In a significant development, the centre is likely to clear the Tour of Duty scheme for military recruiting soon, paving the way for troops to be inducted into the services for short-term stints.
According to top government sources, the Department of Military Affairs, led by Lt Gen Anil Puri, would deliver a presentation to top government functionaries, including heads of services.
The new programme is called Agnipath, and it entails young people joining forces for four years to serve the nation. The initiative is part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s fundamental overhaul to reduce defence spending and the age profile of the armed forces.
The recruiting catchment regions might potentially be greatly enlarged. At the completion of four years, the majority of the troops would be freed of service and would receive support from the armed forces in finding alternative work.
Several corporations will be interested in reserving opportunities for such skilled and disciplined young people who have served their country. Initial projections by the Armed Forces estimated thousands of crores in salary, allowances, and pension savings if a significant number of soldiers are accepted under the tour of duty plan. If there are openings, the finest of the recruited youth may be given the option to continue their service.
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