Bagdogra/Gangtok/New Delhi, 07 November (H.S.): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that the remaining 75 per cent of Agniveers who complete their stipulated four-year tenure under the Agnipath scheme will have the opportunity to serve for an additional two years, subject to their willingness and professional capabilities. Agniveers who fulfil the prescribed standards and eligibility criteria will also have the opportunity to be inducted into the Army as regular soldiers.

He said the initiative would provide young people with another opportunity to serve the nation and contribute to the defence of their motherland.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the Bagdogra region in safeguarding the security of northeastern India, the Defence Minister urged Air Force personnel stationed there to maintain the highest levels of vigilance and operational preparedness. Addressing Air Force personnel at the Bagdogra Airfield in Siliguri before departing for Sikkim, he observed that the nature of modern warfare was changing rapidly.

He pointed out that warfare was no longer confined to conventional battles along national borders. Cyberattacks, drone strikes, proxy warfare and the spread of misinformation through social media had also emerged as major challenges to national security.

Rajnath Singh made the announcement during a Diwali-eve programme organised by the Indian Air Force’s Eastern Air Command at Bagdogra Airfield in West Bengal. On the occasion, he celebrated the festival with personnel of the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, extending his greetings to the troops and their families. He interacted with the personnel, encouraged them and shared the festive spirit by distributing sweets. An Air Force personnel also presented a song during the programme.

Praising the courage, dedication and sacrifices of soldiers serving to protect the country, the Defence Minister said that festivals naturally remind everyone of their families and homes. However, service personnel continue to remain on duty around the clock, putting aside their personal emotions to ensure the safety and security of fellow citizens. He said their sacrifices and dedication were difficult to express in words and conveyed the nation’s gratitude for their unwavering commitment.

Rajnath Singh observed that adversaries were increasingly using social media as a tool to circulate misinformation and provoke people. This, he said, had further increased the responsibilities of the armed forces. He urged personnel to remain vigilant and alert under all circumstances.

Emphasising the strategic significance of Bagdogra and its adjoining areas, the Defence Minister said the region was highly sensitive from the perspective of national security and played a crucial role in safeguarding northeastern India. He described the Air Force personnel stationed there as a strong shield protecting the entire region.

Following the programme at Bagdogra Airfield, the Defence Minister is also scheduled to meet Army personnel at Sukna, where he will interact with them and boost their morale.

Preparations have also been made for Singh’s visit to Sikkim. He is scheduled to arrive in the state on November 8 and is expected to celebrate Diwali with Indian Army personnel deployed along the India-China border in the Nathu La region of East Sikkim. He will also interact with the troops stationed in the area.

According to sources, during his visit, Rajnath Singh will pay homage to soldiers who laid down their lives in the service of the nation at the Sherathang War Memorial, located in the India-China border region.

He will also meet personnel guarding the country’s frontiers amid challenging geographical conditions and harsh weather, and express his appreciation for their service, dedication and sacrifices.

It is worth noting that Rajnath Singh has, on several previous occasions, celebrated major national and cultural festivals with soldiers deployed in border areas and high-altitude Himalayan regions.

The Cabinet recently approved a second two-year engagement period for the remaining 75 per cent of Agniveers, following which they will be eligible for enrolment as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of the prescribed selection criteria.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar