First batch of Agniveers graduate after four months of training

The training at INS Chilka encompassed academic, service and outdoor training. Credit: PTI File Photo

The first batch of nearly 2600 naval Agniveers including 272 women Agniveers passed out from an Indian Navy training establishment in Odisha on Tuesday operationalising the controversial four-year soldier recruitment scheme launched by the Narendra Modi government last year.

As many as 2,585 Agniveers of the Indian Navy passed out from in a first of its kind ceremonial, post sunset Passing Out Parade at INS Chilka under the aegis of Southern Naval Command.

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“This day is historic also because we have the first ever batch of women sailors passing out. As the nation watches, our women sailors will provide inspiration to an entire generation of young women in the country” said Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, who reviewed the parade.

While Agniveers have been recruited by all the three services, the naval personnel are the first who completed the 16 week long training.

The new recruitment scheme was introduced by the Centre last year for hiring soldiers for the three services on a four-year contract, at the end of which 25% would be absorbed in the regular service. The objectives were to reduce the salary bills and to lower the age profile of the troops.