During a heated session in the Lok Sabha, SP supremo Akhilesh Yadav and BJP MP Anurag Thakur clashed over the treatment of Agniveers in the Armed Forces. Yadav claimed that the Agnipath scheme has been a "disaster" for the youth and state governments are being pressured to enroll them through quotas. Thakur countered by citing the history and legacy of his home state Himachal Pradesh in serving the Armed Forces.
Clash Over Agnipath Scheme: Anurag Thakur and Akhilesh Yadav Engage in Verbal Duel
During a recent session in the Lok Sabha, a heated exchange erupted between Samajwadi Party supremo Akhilesh Yadav and Bharatiya Janata Party MP Anurag Thakur over the Agnipath scheme.
Background of Agnipath Controversy
The Agnipath scheme is a short-term military recruitment program launched by the Indian government in June 2022. It aims to induct young people into the Armed Forces for a period of four years, after which only 25% of them will be retained for regular service. The scheme has sparked widespread protests and concerns among aspirants, primarily due to its lack of pension and permanent employment opportunities.
Lok Sabha Clash
In the Lok Sabha session, Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the Agnipath scheme had been a "disaster" for the youth and accused state governments of being pressured to enroll Agniveers, as the scheme's recruits are known, through quotas. He also expressed concerns over the treatment of Agniveers, claiming they were being subjected to "demeaning" tasks and not given proper respect.
Anurag Thakur, Minister of Information and Broadcasting, responded by highlighting the history and legacy of Himachal Pradesh, his home state, in serving the Armed Forces. He asserted that the people of Himachal Pradesh have a deep sense of patriotism and valor, and they continue to serve the nation with distinction.
Five Key FAQs
1. What is the Agnipath scheme?
The Agnipath scheme is a short-term military recruitment program that allows young people to serve in the Armed Forces for a period of four years.
2. What are the concerns over the Agnipath scheme?
Concerns over the Agnipath scheme include the lack of pension and permanent employment opportunities, short duration of service, and potential for exploitation.
3. How does the Agnipath scheme differ from traditional recruitment?
Under traditional recruitment, candidates are inducted into the Armed Forces on a regular basis with the expectation of a full-time career. Agniveers, on the other hand, serve for a fixed period of four years and are not guaranteed permanent employment.
4. What is the government's justification for the Agnipath scheme?
The government has stated that the Agnipath scheme will bring about a necessary transformation in the Armed Forces, making them more agile and youthful. It also aims to reduce the burden of pensions and provide more opportunities for youth in other sectors.
5. What is the current status of the Agnipath scheme?
The Agnipath scheme has faced significant protests and challenges. The government has made some modifications to the scheme, but it remains a contentious issue.
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