More than 19,000 Agnivesers in the Indian Army have started training at nearly 40 locations across the country. They are taking courses that have been designed especially for them and put a lot of emphasis on simulation.
Sources in the defence establishment said that the training methods and infrastructure were changed to meet the need for soldiers who are ready for the future and who will only be needed for a short time.
The training, which started on January 1, includes both basic and advanced military programmes that have been made to fit into a standard 24 to 31 weeks.
Sources say that a lot of simulators for training on different weapons and equipment are being built. They also say that infrastructure is being built and sports medicine and physiotherapy experts are being hired at all training centres as a precaution against stress injuries.
After their training at their assigned centre, the Agniveers will have seven weeks of on-the-job training (OJT).
Sources said that, in addition to the training given at the centres, which is the first step in teaching discipline, the second step will happen in the unit where an Agniveer will work for four years.
Sources said that the tasks, training schedule, and operational duties will create a sense of duty and loyalty to the organisation and the country.
They also said that the third phase of training will include interactions with peers, senior NCOs/JCOs, and (other) officers. These interactions will help an Agniveer develop his personality and see the Army as a “way of life.”
A source said, “All these layers will make sure that an Agniveer learns enough discipline and ethos in his four years of work.”
Agnipath scheme
In June of last year, the government introduced the Agnipath scheme, which changed the way that people join the armed forces in a big way.
Under this plan, young people between the ages of 17 and a half and 21 will be recruited for four years as soldiers (called “Agniveers”).
After four years, all Agniveers will have the option to join the regular cadre, but only 25% of each batch will be kept on after they finish their service. The Agniveers will be made up of people from all over India and all classes. They will also have their own rank and symbol in the armed forces.
The Army held 96 recruitment rallies all over the country to choose 40,000 Agnivesers. On March 1, the second group of over 21,000 recruits will start training. Sources say that new groups will be brought in every year in May and November.
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