Agniveer Recruitment Update: ITI Diploma Holders Preferred

Overview of Agniveer Recruitment

Agniveer Recruitment: Initiated in 2022, the Agniveer scheme is set to see its first batch retire next year. In the meantime, significant modifications to the recruitment process have been introduced, including plans to boost the number of recruits. Notably, candidates holding ITI diplomas are now prioritized over general applicants. This shift is driven by several key factors.

Reasons for Preference of ITI Diploma Holders

Let's delve into the rationale behind the preference for ITI diploma holders in Agniveer recruitment and explore their growing importance within the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy.

1. Need for Technically Skilled Personnel

The Indian Army, along with the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy, requires both general duty and technical candidates. Specifically, over 50% of recruits in the Navy and Air Force are expected to possess technical skills. As the recruitment landscape evolves with a focus on Agniveer, ITI diploma holders are increasingly favored.

2. Addressing Training Challenges

Previously, the Indian Armed Forces provided technical training to recruits post-selection. However, with the introduction of the Agniveer scheme and a service duration of just four years, extensive training is no longer practical. Consequently, the preference for ITI diploma holders is a strategic move to streamline the recruitment process.

3. Ambitious Recruitment Goals

Currently, the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy are enlisting 40 to 45 Agniveers annually. Of these, only 25% will transition to permanent roles, while the remaining 75% will retire after their tenure. Plans are underway to escalate annual recruitment to 100,000 Agniveers, addressing personnel shortages within the Army.