Rajasthan Grants Reservation for Agniveers in State Police, Jail, and Forest Guard Recruitment

In a significant move to honor the dedication and patriotism of Agniveers, the Rajasthan government has announced a provision for reservation in the recruitment of jail guards, forest guards, and state police. This announcement was made by Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, July 26.

The Agnipath scheme, introduced by the central government in 2022, aims to recruit youths aged between 17-and-a-half and 21 into the Army, Navy, and Air Force on a four-year contractual basis. Those selected under this scheme are called Agniveers. After completing their four-year tenure, 25 percent of these recruits will be offered regular service in the armed forces. Recognizing their service, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs had previously reserved 10 percent of vacancies in the Central Armed Police Forces for ex-Agniveers.

Following the central government’s initiative, several states have also implemented similar measures. In Rajasthan, Chief Minister Sharma emphasized the state’s commitment to providing opportunities for Agniveers to continue their service at the state level after their tenure in the armed forces. This reservation policy is seen as a step towards acknowledging the sacrifices and contributions of these young soldiers.

While the exact percentage of reservation for Agniveers in Rajasthan’s state police, jail guard, and forest guard recruitments has not been disclosed, the announcement marks a significant step towards integrating these trained personnel into the state’s security apparatus. This move is expected to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the state's security forces, given the rigorous training and discipline that Agniveers undergo during their service in the armed forces.

The decision also aligns with the broader national policy of providing career opportunities for Agniveers beyond their military service, thereby ensuring their skills and dedication are utilized in various security roles across the country. This initiative by the Rajasthan government not only offers a career path for ex-Agniveers but also strengthens the state’s commitment to national security and public safety.

The announcement has been welcomed by many as a positive step towards recognizing the value of military service and providing a seamless transition for Agniveers into civilian roles. It also highlights the collaborative efforts between the central and state governments in addressing the employment and integration of ex-servicemen into the broader workforce.