Tour of Duty: With Agnipath scheme, a chance for youth to join armed forces

Under the 'Agnipath' scheme, 17.5 to 21-year-olds will be recruited for four years as 'Agniveers' and will get an opportunity to join the regular cadre at the end of this period

On Tuesday, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the transformative Tour on Duty (ToD) scheme or 'Agnipath'. The scheme would grant Indian an opportunity to be inducted into the Armed forces.

Not to be military conscription like in Israel, the Army has branded ToD as an opportunity for India's youth to experience military life without having to join the armed forces -- Army, Navy, and the Air Force -- on a long-term basis.

This scheme will increase employment opportunities with new skills in different sectors, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, adding that it would help train youth for new