Lucknow: In a historic decision aimed at transforming post-service careers for India’s Agniveers, the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has approved a 20% reservation in police recruitment for youth discharged after service under the Agnipath scheme. The announcement came following a cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister on Tuesday.
Major Boost for Agniveers in Police Recruitment
The 20% quota will apply to direct recruitment in key law enforcement wings, including:
- Civil Police Constables
- PAC (Provincial Armed Constabulary)
- Mounted Police
- Firemen
This move signals Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to offering structured employment to ex-Agniveers, making it the first state to reserve such a significant share of police roles for them.
Why This Move Matters
The decision is being seen as a game-changer for youth joining the military under the Agnipath scheme, which offers four-year tenures in the armed forces. With only 25% of Agniveers being absorbed into permanent roles, the remaining 75% face uncertainty post-discharge.
By integrating them into the police force, the UP government is creating a direct civilian career pipeline for trained, disciplined, and combat-ready youth — a first-of-its-kind step in the country.
Who Are Agniveers?
Agniveers are recruits under the Agnipath scheme, launched in June 2022 by the Government of India to create a younger, tech-driven military force. The scheme allows candidates aged 17.5 to 23 to serve for four years — including six months of training and 3.5 years of active duty.
After four years, only 25% are selected for permanent positions, while others exit with a Seva Nidhi package worth ₹11–12 lakh, but no pension benefits.
UP Leads the Way in Agniveer Civil Integration
The reservation policy is being hailed as a bold and strategic move to ensure India’s trained soldiers don’t go jobless post-service. It will also strengthen state police forces with youth who already possess discipline, fitness, and combat readiness.
Sources say other states may soon follow UP’s lead — making this a template for national-level reforms in post-Agnipath employment.
