Cabinet Approves Two-Year Extension for 75 Percent of Agniveers

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved a two-year extension of service for 75 percent of Agniveers who complete their initial four-year tenure without selection for regular forces, Chief of Defence Staff General N.S. Raja Subramani announced on November 4, 2026.

Under the original Agnipath scheme launched in 2022, only 25 percent of each batch were to be retained on merit for permanent service, while the remaining 75 percent would exit after four years with a Seva Nidhi package. The first batch of roughly 18,300 Agniveers is due to complete that tenure by December 31, 2026.

The revised arrangement offers the non-selected 75 percent a second tour of duty of two years at higher remuneration. After the full six years, willing personnel who meet selection criteria can be considered for regular enrolment. General Subramani said the decision followed a review of performance, fitness, and operational requirements by the three services.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the change as a second tour of duty and thanked the Prime Minister for the approval. The extension applies immediately to those completing service in December. Detailed guidelines on pay, seniority, and the enhanced Seva Nidhi contribution will be issued separately.

The Agnipath scheme had drawn criticism from some political allies after the 2024 elections over limited permanent absorption. The Cabinet decision addresses that concern for the current cohort while preserving the original 25 percent immediate retention track. Approximately 300,000 Agniveers are currently serving across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

General Subramani noted that the first batches had shown high physical standards, discipline, and competitive performance. The services will continue periodic reviews. Personnel who decline the extension or fail later selection criteria will exit with the original benefits.

The change does not alter the contractual nature of the initial four years or the merit-based selection for the permanent cadre. It does create an additional window for absorption after six years of service rather than four.