PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Describing the cabinet’s decision to form a dedicated ‘Agniveer Cell’ as historic and a model for other states, chairman of the State Ex-Servicemen Welfare Advisory Council, Col (retd) Ajay Kothiyal said it shows the government’s seriousness towards a secure and dignified future for Agniveers. He said this while addressing a press conference on Wednesday.
Kothiyal said that Uttarakhand has become the first State in the country to establish such a dedicated cell aimed at the rehabilitation and secure future of Agniveers. He said that the government has not only set up the cell but has also created six posts in it.
He stated that this decision reflects respect for the Indian Army and Uttarakhand’s proud military tradition, marking an important step toward a secure future for Agniveers. “This decision will undoubtedly instil hope and confidence in the Agniveer youth of Uttarakhand,” he added.
Kothiyal said that the primary purpose of this cell is to provide better employment opportunities to Agniveer youth returning to Uttarakhand after completing four years of service in the Army, based on their qualifications, skills, experience and interests. The government’s commitment is to secure and strengthen the future of Agniveers by connecting them with new employment and self-employment opportunities.
The cell will also facilitate coordination between the Central Government, State Government, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and private corporations. Kothiyal noted that the cell will also provide information about government schemes, explain banking procedures and offer necessary support for self-employment. Additionally, it will provide tailored training for Agniveers based on their employment needs and develop a digital portal to monitor the entire employment process.
Kothiyal further said that the Agniveer Cell would collaborate with the Army, paramilitary forces, government departments, and various corporations to enhance employment opportunities for Agniveers. He highlighted that the State government has already implemented a 10 percent horizontal reservation for Agniveers in government jobs.
The Agniveer Rozgar Cell will operate directly under the CM Office and will feature a single-window system, enabling Agniveers to access multiple employment-related services in one location. “Our effort is to maintain the youth’s trust in the military, encourage soldiers, and contribute to strengthening the Indian Army. We are confident that this initiative, which began in Uttarakhand, will set a precedent for other States in the future,” he said.
