Manipur became the first state to initiate a pre-recruitment training programme under the controversial Agnipath scheme. The northeastern state launched the scheme on July 3 for youngsters of Heirok and Nongpok Sekmai in Manipur’s Thoubal district. The training programme was launched under the supervision of Heirok MLA Radhe Shyam. 

The Agnipath scheme, Indian government’s new policy to recruit soldiers, turned controversial as aspirants to the Indian Armed Forces broke out in protest over the policy. The Agnipath scheme states that people between ages 17 to 21 will be inducted into the services for four years. After which 75% of recruits will be released while 25% inducted into permanent services. 

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The Agnipath pre-recruitment training began in Ngarouthel ground which had 500 aspirants attending. A total of 200 boys and 300 girls participated in a rally from Heirok Part II to Limpak Hill Heirok Part III. MLA Radhe Shyam told the media the Agnipath scheme aims to foster a sense of nationalism and patriotism in youngsters and upskill them through spirited teamwork and discipline. 

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He added that the motive of the scheme is to help youngsters build character and contribute to nation-building. 

“Under the Agnipath scheme, young army, navy and air force aspirants will have the opportunity to serve the country and even continue in the services. After the four-year service, they will also be considered as the first preference in applying for any other job or they will have enough savings to start a business,” added the MLA. 

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He added that the pre-recruitment training will also teach Hindi and English to Manipuri students as both languages are necessary to join the central forces.