Explained: Why are job aspirants protesting against the ‘Agnipath’ scheme? | Explained News,The Indian Express
Job security and pension are two major issues being cited by protesters. Under the previous system, troops joined for a 17-year period, which could be extended for some personnel, and it resulted in a lifelong pension.
Two days after the government unveiled its Agnipath scheme for recruiting soldiers across the three services, protests raged in several cities against the new defence recruitment path with aspirants raising job security and post-service benefits as their major concerns.
Why are job aspirants up in arms?
Job security and pension are two major issues being cited by protesters. Under the previous system, troops joined for a 17-year period, which could be extended for some personnel, and it resulted in a lifelong pension.
The new scheme, however, envisages just a four-year tenure for most, and the Agniveers will not be eligible for pension benefits.
Mohan Kumar, a protesting student from Bihar’s Chhapra, said: “This Agnipath scheme is just a placebo being given to unemployed youth. Even parents would now think twice before sending their sons to the Army just for four years.”
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