Agnipath Scheme (Agniveer)
Under the Agnipath scheme, young men and women join the Army, Navy or Air Force as Agniveers for four years. They get a monthly salary of ₹30,000 to ₹40,000, about ₹11.71 lakh tax-free when they leave, and up to 25% are kept on as regular soldiers.
What is Agnipath?
Agnipath is the recruitment scheme for soldiers, sailors and airmen below officer rank in the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, started in 2022. Recruits are called Agniveers and serve for four years, including training. The first batch completes its four years in 2026.
Pay and benefits
| Year | Monthly package |
|---|---|
| 1st year | ₹30,000 |
| 2nd year | ₹33,000 |
| 3rd year | ₹36,500 |
| 4th year | ₹40,000 |
- 30% of the monthly package goes into a Seva Nidhi fund, and the government adds an equal amount.
- On leaving after four years, Agniveers get about ₹11.71 lakh (with interest), tax-free. There is no pension.
- Life insurance cover during service, without paying a premium.
- A skill certificate and credits that count toward further education.
After four years
- Up to 25% of each batch are selected to continue as regular soldiers. The armed forces have proposed raising this, and we will update this page if the rule changes.
- Former Agniveers get reservation and age relaxation in recruitment to Central Armed Police Forces and some state police and government jobs.
Who can apply?
- Age 17½ to 21 years (relaxation is sometimes announced for a particular recruitment year).
- Unmarried men and women (for posts open to women).
- Education: Class 10 or Class 12, depending on the post (for example General Duty, Technical, Clerk, or Navy and Air Force trades), with the minimum marks given in each notification.
- Must meet the medical and physical fitness standards of the service.
How to apply
- Watch for the recruitment notification of the service you want.
- Apply online on the official site: Army, Navy or Air Force.
- Take the online common entrance exam.
- Selected candidates go through physical tests, document checks and a medical exam.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Agniveer salary?
₹30,000 a month in the first year, rising to ₹40,000 in the fourth year. Part of it goes into the Seva Nidhi fund.
How much do Agniveers get after four years?
About ₹11.71 lakh from the Seva Nidhi, tax-free. There is no pension.
What is the age limit for Agniveer?
17½ to 21 years, with relaxation sometimes announced for a particular year.
How many Agniveers become permanent?
Up to 25% of each batch are selected as regular soldiers. The armed forces have proposed increasing this.
Can girls join as Agniveers?
Yes, in posts that are open to women in the Army, Navy and Air Force.