Government Increases Quota for Ex-AgniVeers in BSF Recruitment
Significant Decision for Ex-AgniVeers
New Delhi: The central government has made a crucial decision regarding the youth who have served under the AgniVeer scheme. There has been ongoing concern about the future of AgniVeers after their four-year service period.
With this new ruling, it is now clear that former AgniVeers will have enhanced employment opportunities within security forces. This decision is viewed as a pathway to a stable career for them.
Major Changes in BSF Recruitment Rules
The Ministry of Home Affairs has revised the recruitment rules for constables in the Border Security Force (BSF). The reservation for former AgniVeers has been increased from 10% to 50%. This amendment has been made through changes to the BSF General Duty Cadre Recruitment Rules of 2015. The government believes this will provide trained and disciplined youth with the chance to join the force.
Relaxations in Age Limit and Physical Tests
According to the government notification, the first batch of former AgniVeers will receive a five-year relaxation in the maximum age limit. Other former AgniVeers will benefit from a three-year age relaxation. Additionally, special provisions have been made for physical standards and efficiency tests to facilitate their recruitment process.
Recruitment Process in Two Phases
The notification states that in the first phase, the nodal force will recruit for the 50% reserved vacancies for former AgniVeers. In the second phase, the Staff Selection Commission will handle the remaining 47% vacancies, with 10% reserved for ex-servicemen. Any remaining vacancies from the first phase will also be filled through this process.
Concerns Surrounding the AgniVeer Scheme
Since the implementation of the AgniVeer scheme, opposition parties and various organizations have raised questions regarding job security after four years of service. This has led to uncertainty among the youth. The government's decision is seen as a significant step towards addressing these concerns.
Important Amendment Made in June
Earlier in June, the central government amended the Allocation of Business Rules of 1961. This amendment assigned the Ministry of Home Affairs the responsibility of coordinating activities related to the future and rehabilitation of AgniVeers who complete four years of service in the armed forces. The increased quota in BSF is viewed as a subsequent step in this direction.