Guwahati, Nov. 4 -- The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a two-year extension of the engagement period for Agniveers recruited under the 'Agnipath' scheme, allowing the 75% of the first batch who were earlier due to exit after four years to continue for an additional two years and subsequently apply for enrolment in the regular armed forces.

Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani said the extension, described as a 'Second Tour of Duty', would give Agniveers an opportunity to seek permanent enrolment after completing six years of service. Their enrolment will depend on their willingness and fulfilment of prescribed selection criteria.

The first batch of Agniveers is nearing the end of its initial four-year tenure. Under the ...