Uttar Pradesh reserves 20% government jobs for discharged Agniveers

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath unveiled a significant employment initiative in Gonda district on Monday, reserving 20% of Uttar Pradesh government job vacancies for Agniveers upon completion of their service. The move aims to facilitate smoother transitions for personnel exiting the Centre's Agnipath scheme, a recruitment programme introduced by the Indian armed forces in 2022.

Under the new policy, former Agniveers will be eligible for state government positions without requiring to sit for competitive examinations, streamlining the recruitment process. The announcement comes as the state government seeks to support armed forces personnel while addressing employment concerns raised by the scheme's critics.

In addition to the employment quota, the state administration announced the distribution of free liquefied petroleum gas cylinders to economically weaker households ahead of Diwali celebrations. The twin announcements are part of broader welfare and development initiatives unveiled during the Chief Minister's visit to Gonda, which also included infrastructure and public works projects totalling Rs 520 crore.

The employment quota represents one of several state-level measures adopted across India to support Agniveers transitioning to civilian employment following their service commitments.