New Delhi, Nov. 5 -- The Union Cabinet has approved an additional two-year engagement period for 75 per cent of Agniveers completing their initial four-year service, creating an extended pathway for their possible absorption as regular soldiers in the Defence Forces.

Under the revised arrangement, 25 per cent of Agniveers will continue to be offered regular employment on the basis of merit, as originally envisaged under the Agnipath scheme. The remaining 75 per cent, subject to their willingness, will be offered another two-year engagement period.

After completing the additional two years, these Agniveers will also be offered enrolment as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of the prescribed selection criteria....