Agniveer aspirants appearing for written test. (File)
Srinagar: The first batch of recruits under the newly introduced Agnipath recruitment scheme from the Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir has joined the Indian Army for training, the Defence PRO in Srinagar said on Monday. They will train as Agniveer general duty, Agniveer technical, Agniveer clerk/storekeeper technical, and Agniveer tradesmen.
It said approximately 200 candidates were selected after document verification and rigorous tests, including physical tests, medical tests, and written examination. They were dispatched from the Army Recruiting Office, Srinagar to about 30 training centres of various regiments of the Indian Army on December 24, 2022.
The candidates will report for training between December 25 and 30 and their training will start from January 1, 2023.
The Defence PRO further said, “The selection and despatch of candidates through all stages has been possible due to the concerted and synergized efforts of the civil administration headed by the Kashmir divisional commissioner and his team, constant support of Chinar Corps and the dedication of the aspirants to contribute to nation building.”
“In spite of the road-traffic movement conditions and subzero winter conditions, the candidates have displayed zeal and enthusiasm in joining their training centres by due date and adorn their new role of ‘Agniveer’ within the next six months,” it added.
Under the Agnipath scheme, an Agniveer will serve four years in the service they choose without rank. After that he/she will be relieved with a lump sum. The service can retain 25 per cent from relieved Agniveers for permanent posts with ranks.
