Sudhir SinghUpdated on June 18, 2026
The Agnipath scheme was launched in June 2022 to recruit young men and women into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force for a fixed 4-year term. Recruits under this scheme are called Agniveers. After 4 years, 25% of each batch is retained for a full 15-year service, while the remaining 75% leave with a lump sum payout and certain benefits.
If you are considering applying, here is everything you need to know: salary, what you actually take home, benefits, how to apply, and what happens after 4 years.
Agniveer Salary Structure (Month-by-Month)
| Year | Monthly Package | In-Hand (after 30% Seva Nidhi deduction) |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Rs. 30,000 | Rs. 21,000 |
| Year 2 | Rs. 33,000 | Rs. 23,100 |
| Year 3 | Rs. 36,500 | Rs. 25,580 |
| Year 4 | Rs. 40,000 | Rs. 28,000 |
The remaining 30% is deposited into the Seva Nidhi fund. The government adds an equal matching contribution. At the end of 4 years, the total Seva Nidhi corpus is approximately Rs. 11.71 lakh, and this amount is tax-free.
Other Benefits During Service
- Non-contributory life insurance of Rs. 48 lakh for the full 4-year tenure.
- Ex-gratia of Rs. 44 lakh in case of death in service beyond insurance coverage.
- Disability compensation based on the degree of disability.
- Free ration, clothing, and accommodation during posting.
- Medical facilities for the Agniveer (not extended to family members).
What Happens After 4 Years?
At the end of the 4-year term:
- 25% are retained for regular service of 15 years under existing service conditions.
- 75% exit with the Seva Nidhi corpus of approximately Rs. 11.71 lakh (tax-free).
- Exiting Agniveers receive a skill certificate and priority in recruitment for certain Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), state police forces, and PSUs.
- No pension is applicable for the 75% who exit after 4 years.
Eligibility Criteria
| Branch | Age | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Army – Soldier (General Duty) | 17.5 to 23 years | Class 10 pass with 45% aggregate and 33% in each subject. |
| Army – Technical | 17.5 to 23 years | Class 12 with Science (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) at 50%. |
| Navy – Sailor (AA/MR) | 17.5 to 21 years | Class 12 with Maths and Physics (for AA). Class 10 for MR. |
| Air Force – All Trades | 17.5 to 21 years | Depends on trade: Class 10 for Group Y, Class 12 Science for Group X. |
Note: The upper age limit was relaxed to 23 years in the first two batches. Current recruitment notifications may differ, so check the official sites before applying.
Selection Process
The selection process varies slightly by branch but generally involves:
- Physical Fitness Test (PFT): 1.6 km run, pull-ups, sit-ups, and 9-foot ditch jump (varies by branch).
- Medical Examination: Conducted at an Army/Navy/Air Force hospital.
- Written Examination: Common Entrance Test covering General Knowledge, Maths, Science, and reasoning.
- Document Verification: Original certificates checked at the final stage.
How to Apply for Agniveer
Indian Army
- Visit joinindianarmy.nic.in.
- Register with your email and mobile number.
- Fill in your personal and educational details.
- Select the recruitment rally near your home district.
- Download your admit card and appear at the rally venue on the given date.
Indian Navy
- Go to joinindiannavy.gov.in.
- Register and fill in the application form when a notification is active.
- Pay the application fee and download the hall ticket.
- Appear for the written test and physical test as per the schedule.
Indian Air Force
- Visit agnipathvayu.cdac.in.
- Register, choose your phase and trade preference.
- Complete online registration and pay the application fee.
- Appear for the online written examination at the designated centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can women apply for the Agniveer scheme?
Women can apply for specific categories in the Navy and Air Force (Military Police in the Army is also open to women). Check the current recruitment notification for each branch, as the categories open to women change with each cycle.
Is the Seva Nidhi amount taxable?
No. The Seva Nidhi amount received by an Agniveer at the end of the 4-year term is fully exempt from income tax under Section 10 of the Income Tax Act, as per an amendment made at the time of the scheme launch.
Will Agniveers get reservation in government jobs?
Several central and state government departments have announced priority or reservation for Agniveer veterans. This includes CAPFs (10% reservation), state police forces (varies by state), and some PSUs. The list keeps expanding, so check the official DMA (Department of Military Affairs) website for the current list of organisations offering priority to Agniveer veterans.
What is the physical fitness standard for the Army Agniveer test?
For the common physical test, candidates must run 1.6 km in under 5 minutes 40 seconds (Group I timing) to get full marks. They also need to complete 10 pull-ups and 20 sit-ups. Standards vary slightly by category and state. Prepare well in advance as the physical test is the first stage of elimination.
📩 If you notice any incorrect data in this guide or wish to share additional information, please write to us at info@indiansouls.in.
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