75% of Agniveers were originally slated to exit after 4 years. Now, they get a 2-year service extension, followed by an opportunity to transition into the permanent cadre.


> The Union Cabinet approved a two-year "Second Tour of Duty" for Agniveers on 4 Nov. CDS Gen NS Raja Subramani shared the update in New Delhi.
> 
> What changed
> ⚡ Former scheme: 4-year service period. 25% retained in the regular forces based on merit. The other 75% returned to civilian life.
> ⚡ Revised scheme: The 25% merit-based induction remains. The remaining 75% will receive a second 2-year engagement.
> ⚡ Post-extension: After those 2 years, any interested Agniveer can join the permanent military, subject to objective criteria.


> Who it applies to
> 
> The Agnipath policy launched on 14 June 2022. The pioneer group of Agniveers is currently nearing the end of its 4-year deployment. 
> Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed that all interested Agniveers meeting the criteria can become permanent soldiers after 4 or 6 years.