During his address on Kargil Vijay Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi defended the Agnipath scheme as a necessary reform for keeping the armed forces young and fit for war. He refuted accusations that the scheme was launched to save pension money and criticized the opposition for politicizing a sensitive issue related to national security. Modi stated that the issue of making the armed forces younger has been discussed in Parliament and committees for years but the will to resolve it was not shown earlier.
Kargil Vijay Diwas: PM Modi Defends Agnipath Scheme, Criticizes Opposition
Background:
Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed on July 26th every year to commemorate the victory of the Indian Armed Forces over Pakistan in the Kargil conflict in 1999. The conflict lasted for over two months and resulted in the Indian Army reclaiming control of the strategic heights in the Kargil-Dras sector in the Himalayas.
Agnipath Scheme:
The Agnipath scheme, introduced by the Indian government in June 2022, is a short-term contract-based hiring system for the Armed Forces. Under the scheme, recruits are hired for a four-year term, after which they are discharged. A small percentage of them may be retained after the four years.
PM Modi's Address on Kargil Vijay Diwas:
During his address on Kargil Vijay Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about the significance of the day and lauded the bravery and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces. He also defended the Agnipath scheme, saying that it is a necessary reform for keeping the Armed Forces young and fit for war.
Criticism and Defense of Agnipath Scheme:
The Agnipath scheme has been met with some criticism, particularly from opposition parties, who claim that it is a move to save pension money. However, the government has refuted these accusations, stating that the scheme is designed to improve the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. What is the purpose of Kargil Vijay Diwas? Answer: To commemorate the Indian Armed Forces' victory over Pakistan in the Kargil conflict in 1999.
2. What is the significance of the Agnipath scheme? Answer: To make the Armed Forces younger, fitter, and more agile, and to enhance operational effectiveness.
3. Why has the Agnipath scheme faced criticism? Answer: Some critics believe that it is a move to save pension money and reduces job security for soldiers.
4. What are the benefits of the Agnipath scheme? Answer: It provides an opportunity for young people to serve in the Armed Forces and gain valuable skills and experience, while also reducing the burden of pensions on the government.
5. What are the future prospects of the Agnipath scheme? Answer: The government has stated that the scheme will be reviewed after four years and modifications will be made based on feedback and experience.
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