Several state governments stepped up security amid a call for a “Bharat Bandh” on Monday in protest against the Agneepath program. In 20 districts, the Bihar government temporarily shut down Internet access. Candidates of the armed service have been protesting in 11 states, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Jharkhand, and Assam.
After the Union government unveiled the controversial Agneepath scheme to enlist young people in the three services of the Armed Forces, there were widespread demonstrations last week. Additionally, the central government has defended the program, saying that recruits, or “Agniveers,” who retires after four years will receive financial aid.
The Police were instructed to remain on high alert due to the statewide strike in Bihar, Jharkhand, Kerala, and Punjab. In Jharkhand, schools and colleges remained closed, and the state also postponed the ongoing class exams for grades 9 and 11. Section 144 was imposed in Jaipur, Balia, Noida, and Muzzaffarnagar. Indian railways had to cancel 600 trains as the protests continued on the day of Bharat Bandh.
In the last week, public property was severely damaged as the agitation turned violent. Trains were set ablaze, markets were closed and buses were torched in several states. Bihar witnessed the most violent protests.
- Advertisement -
Why are the aspirants violently protesting against Agneepath?
Two significant points raised by demonstrators are pension and job security. The previous system saw soldiers enlisting for a term of 17 years, which was extended for some personnel, and it resulted in a pension that was paid for life.
The main worry among young people is that the system would only allow them to work for four years. Also, only 25% of recruits will be selected for an extended service, and the remaining 75% of recruits would be demobilized, ineligible for pensions, and will face an uncertain future. It is also being criticized for failing to offer retirees stable employment or healthcare coverage.
Some experts believe that the youth have been misguided by false rumors on social media. According to the senior defense personnel and central government, the flow of misinformation through social media has ignited these protests.
Politics around Agnipath-
The opposition supported the aspirants in their protest against the Agneepath scheme. Indian National Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, Samajwadi Party, and Bahujan Samajwadi Party publicly criticized the government’s scheme and called it a hasty decision. The opposition leaders appealed to the agitators to keep the protests non-violent and advised them to not damage public property.
Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the Congress, criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his policies, saying they were “bringing agony to the people of the nations.” Meanwhile, SP leader Akhilesh Yadav also urged the BJP to “make an example” by disclosing a list of its members whose kids are enrolled in the Agniveer program. AAP leader Sanjay Singh did a press conference and asked the government to take back the scheme.
BJP leaders and Cabinet ministers took to social media to defend the Agneepath scheme and listed the many benefits. Regarding the “Agnipath” program, BJP President J.P. Nadda stated, “The government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has announced the “Agnipath” program, which enables our youth to serve in the military forces for a specific amount of time. This will enable the young people to develop self-discipline and effectively serve the country.
Apart from the politics on the issue, the central government and India’s Defence forces have jointly announced the date for registration of the Agneeveers in the tri-services. It is clear from this decision that the government will not roll back the Agnipath scheme.
Why is Agnipath crucial for the national security of India?
The program intends to make significant changes in the armed forces.
If encouraged and nurtured positively, youth in India will be one of the major game-changers. India is on the verge of a population dividend in the shape of a “youth bulge,” whereas many other nations in the globe have a higher percentage of an aging population. However, this will only work in our favor if the youth is driven, skilled, and disciplined, as well as patriotic. When faced with unemployment, poverty, and societal split on numerous levels individuals will become a liability if they lack the above qualities.
There will be several benefits for the armed services in terms of defense.
Over the next five years, the average age profile will drop from its current level of 32 to around 26. The competition and general level of motivation will increase, providing the units with clear advantages. The 25% reinstated recruits will be the best group of competent people. They will be able to use sophisticated weaponry and equipment more effectively in future battles. They will be able to work effectively in a networked environment since they are skilled with modern automation tools and their practical application.
The ambit of national security is changing at an unprecedented pace. Apart from safeguarding territorial integrity and internal peace, national security also entails making sure that there is no security threat to the nation’s economic forces. Agneeveers post their services will join the workforce as skilled persons who will become the powerhouse of our economy. Experts also believe that in case of emergency attacks on the country, Agniveers will be the reserve force that would give an advantage to India.
