AGNIVEERS

Pakistan to deploy 30 Chinese Z-10ME attack helicopters in Himalayan region? Blogger reveals reported deal, features and weapon

A Chinese military blogger has claimed that Pakistan signed a contract for 30 Z-10ME attack helicopters with China, although neither country has officially confirmed the reported deal. The development comes as Islamabad looks to modernise its army aviation fleet. The upgraded helicopters feature high-altitude capabilities, advanced targeting systems, anti-tank missiles and electronic warfare equipment.

DRDO successfully tests indigenously developed Pralay missile off Odisha coast: Rajnath Singh

The Defence Research and Development Organisation executed a successful flight test of the Pralay missile. This test took place off the coast of Odisha at 11:10 am as part of user evaluation trials. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed that all objectives were met during the exercise. Data captured through various range instruments validated the success of the test.

All Agniveers will be absorbed in regular cadre: Defence officials

The Indian government announced changes to the Agnipath recruitment scheme for Agniveers in the military. Those completing a four-year tenure will get a two-year extension and a chance for regular recruitment. All Agniveers demonstrating willingness, physical fitness, and discipline will be absorbed into the regular cadre. Seniority will be maintained when they join, ensuring they are not junior to others.

UGC to relook controversial caste discrimination, ragging rules: Govt tells SC

The Centre has told the Supreme Court that it is considering appointing a committee to revisit the UGC's 2026 regulations on caste discrimination in higher education institutions. The submission comes after the top court put the rules on hold in January, citing concerns over vague provisions and their potential consequences.

All Agniveers to get permanent jobs after 6 years? Is Agnipath scrapped? Defence officials answer

The revised Agnipath scheme has raised questions about regular jobs, seniority and whether the original recruitment model has been scrapped. The government has clarified that the first 25% of Agniveers will enter regular service after four years, while the remaining 75% will serve an additional two years before enrolment, with their seniority protected.

Agniveer Scheme revamped: What's the new pathway to permanent Army jobs and why has govt changed Agnipath?

The government's revision of the Agnipath scheme comes ahead of Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Punjab, addressing concerns over limited retention in the armed forces. The new framework allows the 25% selected on merit to enter regular service after four years, while the remaining 75% can serve two more years before being considered for enrolment.

'Agnipath scheme was not set in stone’: CDS General NS Raja Subramani on 2-year extension

Ahead of crucial assembly polls, govt rejigs Agnipath, opens path to permanent service for all

The government has made significant changes to the Agnipath scheme that affects armed forces recruitment. This revised framework allows all Agniveers a chance to continue in service after their initial term. Agniveers will now have an option for an additional two-year engagement with enhanced benefits. The decision addresses concerns regarding the wastage of training resources if they were required to leave after four years.

"Very important and excellent decision": Defence expert Sanjeev Srivastava hails Agnipath's tenure extension

Defence Expert Sanjeev Srivastava on Wednesday hailed the Centre's decision to grant a two-year extension to 75 per cent of Agniveers as a "very important and excellent decision" that will give them a fresh opportunity to serve and a chance for permanent enrolment.

Agnipath scheme: All Agniveers to be offered regular enrolment after 2-year extended engagement

The Union Cabinet has approved a revised Agnipath scheme offering all Agniveers a pathway to regular military service. The top 25% will be absorbed after four years based on merit, while the remaining 75% can opt for a two-year extension with higher pay, enhanced Seva Nidhi and seniority benefits before enrolment.

'Until it becomes perfect, many things have to be changed, evaluated': Former Lt Gen DP Pandey hails Cabinet's Agnipath extension

Responding to queries regarding the government's decision to introduce a 'Second Tour of Duty' and expand regular enrolment pathways, Lt Gen Pandey pointed out that iterative reviews are essential for perfecting any newly introduced recruitment model.

Agniveers' tenure extended by two years; CDS says 75% outgoing Agniveers will also be given option to continue in armed forces

Agniveer extension news: The Centre has announced a two-year engagement extension for the remaining 75% of Agniveers following feedback on the Agnipath scheme. CDS General N S Raja Subramani said all would be offered a pathway to regular enrolment after the extended period. He also announced changes to recruitment tests and skill certificates for Agniveers.

Agnipath revised: Cabinet allows 75% of Agniveers 2-year extension, another shot at regular service

Cabinet approves ₹14,500-crore scheme to add 92 GWh energy storage capacity

The Union Cabinet has approved a significant ₹14,500-crore scheme aimed at developing new energy storage capacity. This funding will support the establishment of 92 GWh of grid-scale energy storage across India. Additionally, 850 fast-track courts will be set up to expedite cases involving child abuse and rape. The government has also created a pathway for the enrollment of 25% of Agniveers in the armed forces.

1st batch of Agniveers retiring soon: What's the retirement money, career options and benefits they will get

By 2026, approximately 18,300 Agniveers will finish their service in the armed forces, marking a pivotal transition. To ease their shift into civilian life, numerous states have initiated job quotas specifically for ex-Agniveers across different uniformed services and police departments. These initiatives stem from the Agnipath scheme launched in June 2022, which focuses on enlisting younger individuals in military roles.

'Looking forward to representing India': Defence Minister Rajnath Singh leaves for Tajikistan for SCO meet

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is traveling to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, for the SCO Heads of Government meeting. The meeting will focus on various cooperative initiatives, including culture, economy, and innovation. India aims to strengthen ties with other SCO members through this engagement. Last year's CHG meeting was hosted in Moscow with S Jaishankar representing India. Pakistan will host the next SCO Summit in 2027 and will invite India.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami holds cabinet meets across districts; Opposition says too late

The opposition Congress is questioning the government's decision to hold cabinet meetings away from the state capital terming it as election tours and photo Opps misusing the public funds. Congress state president Ganesh Godiyal said that the BJP government is now going to the doorstep of the people when the end is near after 10 years. Godiyal said that the government is trying to offer medicine for a wrong ailment while the real problems are entirely different.

CRPF mulls restoring Army ranks abolished 30 years ago; promotions, Agniveers in focus

The CRPF is considering reintroducing the lance naik and naik ranks, abolished in 1997, to address promotion delays among its 3.25 lakh personnel and attract retiring Agniveers from the Army. The move could provide constables with two additional promotion opportunities before becoming head constables.

Ex-Agniveers may get Delhi govt jobs without exams, physical tests

The Delhi government is considering direct recruitment of former Agniveers into police and fire services. This recruitment may occur without requiring written or physical examinations for candidates. Eligible ex-Agniveers could receive additional age relaxation on top of existing rules. The recruitment process may happen in two stages for better efficiency in filling vacancies. Amendments to recruitment rules will require approval from authorities before official notification.

Tea Fraternity comes together to raise over Rs 2.26 crore for Assam flood relief

A special charity tea auction held in Guwahati raised Rs 1.61 crore for flood relief. An additional contribution of Rs 65 lakh from a generous donor brought the total to Rs 2.26 crore. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's presence encouraged active participation from the tea fraternity and buyers. Leading tea companies made significant purchases, contributing to the auction's success and overall fundraising.

Assam Cabinet approves Green Cess on vehicle ownership transfers, 12% quota for ex-Agniveers

In a recent meeting, the Assam Cabinet has ratified a Green Cess on vehicle ownership transfers. This initiative aligns with the introduction of a 12% recruitment reservation for ex-Agniveers residing in Assam, specifically for police and emergency roles. Furthermore, the Madhupur Satra will receive financial support of Rs 1 lakh each month.

UP govt steps up outreach to key voter groups ahead of 2027 Assembly polls

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s government has announced a series of measures benefiting Panchayat Sahayaks, farmers, ex-servicemen, former Agniveers, ration dealers, lawyers and fishermen ahead of the 2027 Assembly polls. The measures include higher honorariums, job-related benefits, concessional loans, reservation, healthcare support and other welfare measures.

Delhi gears up to raise State Disaster Emergency Relief Force; CM meets NDRF officials

Delhi government is forming a State Disaster Emergency Relief Force. This initiative follows a recent building collapse incident in Satya Niketan. The new force will ensure a quick response to natural and man-made calamities. It will be comprised of Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel. Direct recruitment of eligible candidates, including ex-Agniveers, is also planned.