Two Agniveers Killed In Shell Explosion During Firing Practice At Nashik Artillery Centre

Two Agniveers were killed when a shell from an Indian field gun exploded during firing practice at the Artillery Centre in Maharashtra’s Nashik district on Friday.

The deceased Agniveers have been identified as Gohil Vishwaraj Singh (20) and Saifat Shit (21).

According to an official, a team of Agniveers was firing an Indian field gun when one of the shells exploded. Both sustained injuries and were taken to MH Hospital in Deolali, where they were pronounced dead.

Based on a complaint from Havildar Ajit Kumar, a case of accidental death has been registered with the Deolali Camp police, and further investigations are underway, the official said.

What is the Agniveer scheme about?

The Agnipath scheme, announced on June 14, 2022, aims to recruit youth aged between 17.5 and 21 years into the armed forces for a period of four years, including training.

Under this scheme, Agniveers are inducted into the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy for four years of service. After this period, 25 per cent of Agniveers are permanently recruited into the Indian Army.

Agniveers earn a starting package of about Rs 4.76 lakhs in the first year, which increases to around Rs 6.92 lakhs by the fourth year. Each Agniveer is required to contribute 30 per cent of their monthly salary to a service fund, with an equal contribution made by the government.

The scheme includes a non-contributory life insurance cover of Rs 48 lakhs for Agniveers. In the event of death during service, an additional ex gratia amount of Rs 44 lakhs is provided, and the family will receive the accumulated amount in the service fund.

Controversy Over Agniveer Scheme

Since its inception, the Agniveer scheme has been a contentious topic, drawing criticism from various sections of society, including political figures. Critics have highlighted that the scheme lacks gratuity, retirement benefits, job security and several other factors.

Concerns have also been raised about the four-year period of service and what will happen to the 75 per cent of Agniveers who exit the scheme after that time. Widespread protests against this scheme were in several states, including Bihar, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

Many opposition leaders, including senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav, and others have been vocal against the scheme. They argue that it jeopardises the futures of many youths and undermines the fighting spirit of the armed forces. The controversy surrounding the scheme also became a key electoral issue in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

(With inputs from agencies)