Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak has advised the youth opposing the Agnipath scheme not to be misguided by anti-social elements, saying divisive forces are trying to create disturbance in society by using youth as their tools.
Stressing the need to avoid becoming a tool in the hands of anti-social forces, the deputy chief minister appealed to the youth to make preparations and take advantage of the Agnipath scheme.
Along with this, Pathak has welcomed the decision of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to reserve 10 per cent vacancies in Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Assam Rifles for Agniveers who complete four years of service as well as relaxation of three years in the entry age limit for them.
In a statement released on Saturday, Pathak said that the Agnipath scheme would create new opportunities for the youth.
“This scheme is a golden opportunity for the bright future of youth as only fit and bright youth will join the Indian Army,” Pathak said.
He said that earlier due to the policies of the previous governments, on an average, one out of 10 candidates was recruited in the army and the remaining nine were left to fend for themselves. “But now in the Narendra Modi government, if four youths are selected for the army, then one will get permanent appointment after four years and the remaining three will get a lump sum amount of about Rs 12 lakh and better opportunities for their appointment in police and other departments,” he pointed out.
The deputy chief minister said that the youth should also understand that this service was not only for the Indian Army as opportunities would remain for service in the paramilitary forces.
“While Union Home Minister Amit Shah has talked about giving preference to these youth in various services; various state governments, including Uttar Pradesh, have announced to give priority to them in police service," Pathak said.
Agniveers will be given financial packages for business, easy bank loan facility and priority will be given to them in the recruitment of paramilitary forces and police, he said.
The deputy chief minister said that the Agnipath scheme was a historic step towards making the Indian Armed Forces more youthful. “Joining the Armed Forces is a matter of pride for every Indian and this initiative will see more youth join the national service, create new employment opportunities and contribute to creating a skilled and fit workforce,” he said.
Pathak said that instead of protesting, youth should prepare for the recruitment of Agniveers which is going to happen soon.