The National Institute of Open Schooling, an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Human Resource Development (or education department), will be developing customised courses for Agniveers recruited under the Agnipath scheme to enable them to finish their school education.
According to India’s education department (Department of School Education and Literacy), the Agnipath scheme offers young men an opportunity to serve in the armed forces for four years as “Agniveers,” a term derived from ancient Indian history. The scheme was launched as part of an effort by the military to tap into existing pools of money and labor so that they can avoid having to incur additional costs while they battle to meet their recruitment targets. Candidates who are 17.5 – 21 years old, and have either completed 10th or 12th grade, are invited to apply for this position.
“To support this initiative, the Department of School Education & Literacy through its autonomous institution, the National Institute of Open Schools, is implementing a special program in consultation with the Defense authorities to allow Agniveers who cannot find places in formal educational institutions on account of their status as former Army personnel to complete their secondary education by developing customised courses that are relevant and current to meet the needs of individuals who already have some education. This will not only enhance employment prospects for former soldiers but create a sense of empowerment as they’re able to continue their formal education without having to leave behind their studies,” it added.