MHA Introduces 10% Reservation for Former Agniveers in CISF Recruitment

In a significant development, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has amended the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Security Service (Subordinate Rank) rules to introduce a 10% reservation for ex-Agniveers. This decision marks a pivotal shift in India's paramilitary recruitment policy, aimed at integrating qualified veterans into the CISF.

Key Amendments and Guidelines:

1. Reservation Quota:

   • 10% of vacancies will be reserved for ex-Agniveers in the CISF.

2. Age Relaxation:

   • The upper age limit for candidates from the ex-Agniveer community will be extended by up to five years for the first batch.
   • For subsequent batches, the age limit will be extended by three years.

3. Exemption from Physical Fitness Test:

   • Ex-Agniveers will be exempted from the physical fitness test during recruitment.

Background and Context:

• Role of CISF: The CISF, with approximately 170,000 personnel, is responsible for securing critical installations such as airports, seaports, nuclear facilities, and metro networks under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

• Agnipath Programme: Launched on June 14, 2022, the Agnipath programme aims to reform military recruitment across the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. It emphasizes operational flexibility, promotes a healthier military profile, and trains a skilled cadre to meet strategic challenges.

• Resistance and Amendments: Initially facing resistance, the Agnipath programme led to nationwide protests against its short-term recruitment model. In response, the government introduced a 10% reservation quota for former Agniveers who completed their initial four-year service.

• Integration Across Forces: This reservation also extends to posts within the Central Armed Paramilitary Forces (CAPFs) and the Assam Rifles, complementing the retention policy where 25% of Agniveers opt to continue in regular service after screening.