Assistance to 'Agniveers', government summons bankers

New Delhi, June 16

In an attempt to contain the adverse fallout from the “Agnipath” scheme, the government on Thursday summoned representatives of public sector financial sector behemoths to explore employment prospects after they quit active service.

After an official of the Department of Military Affairs, which spearheaded the now-controversial proposal, had made a presentation on the scheme’s salient aspects, it was decided that public sector banks, insurance companies and financial institutions would explore employment opportunities for “Agniveers” in suitable capacities based on their educational qualifications and skills through suitable relaxations.

“The purpose was to identify ways in which the banks and financial institutions could support the ‘Agniveers’ on completion of their tenure of duty,” stated an official release. It was decided that banks would explore possibilities of supporting ‘Agniveers’ through suitable credit facilities for skill upgradation, education for setting up businesses and self-employment. The existing schemes such as MUDRA and Stand Up India would be leveraged for extending such support to the ‘Agniveers’.

MoD: No change in regimental system

• To allay fears, the MoD said the Agnipath model would open up avenues for youth. It added no change would be made to the regimental system. Lt General KK Repswal, Chief of Staff, Eastern Command, said the plan would provide a trained pool of talent to the forces.

Courses by NIOS

• Fearing stir akin to farmers’ agitation, the govt is keeping a watch on ‘Agnipath’ protesters. Meanwhile, BJP’s estranged MP Varun Gandhi questioned the scheme. The Union Education Minister announced NIOS courses for the ‘Agniveers’.