The whole concept of Agni Veer needs to be reevaluated to make it pragmatic and worthy of implementation. There is certainly scope for lot of improvement and give it an Indian orientation.

It is a major policy decision that needs due deliberation and debate. On recruitment, a soldier through Agni Veer is absolutely uncertain about his future as only 25% will be retained. Also, if he becomes a battle casualty, he does not get same benefits as other soldiers.

Soldiering is language of heart and soul, for a soldier “Nation is Supreme” and “Unit ki Izzat” is paramount. He lives and dies for it.

It takes time for a recruit to become a Soldier. After training in Centre and joining unit and having spent some time, he becomes part of “Soldier family” for him a Unit becomes like his mother.

That is a way ahead to effectively implement this concept of Agni Veer following is recommended for due consideration with decision to be taken at the highest level :-

• (a) 50% of Agni Veer’s be retained in Armed forces.
• (b) Balance 50% only after 7 years of service be sidestepped to Central Para Military Forces (CPMF) / Defense Civil Organization (Def Civ Org).
• (c) Recommendation of 6th CPC be implemented as CPMF has force of 7 lacs and Def Civ Org 4 lacs. Annual wastage rate is 35,000 (Thirty five thousand) while Armed forces have annual wastage rate of 40,000 (Forty Thousand)
• (d) Also, average recruitment age in Armed Forces is 19 years, while in CPMF and Def Civ Org is 26 years. That is why after seven years of service 50% of Agni Veer should be sidestepped to other organizations.
• (e) Whoever cannot be sidestepped there should be a definite concrete proposal to absorb them in other PSU, Government Organizations and Private Sector.

It should be a model of 100% absorption : where in a Agni Veer can serve for minimum 17 years, enabling him to earn and lead a respected life in our society.

Most important, all battle causalities of Agni Veer should get some benefits as other Armed Forces Soldiers. Above can be implemented if clear decision is taken at the highest level in accordance with “NATION FIRST, ALWAYS AND EVER”.

These changes will make for a very well trained soldier with adequate experience joining CPMF or any Def Civ Org, thereby making these organizations extremely competent, efficient, disciplined and committed.