The Indian Air Force has decided to include 712 personnel from the first batch recruited under the Agnipath scheme into the regular cadre. This figure accounts for approximately 25 percent of the total in the first batch, which comprises 2850 personnel, aligning with the current structure of the program.
The remaining personnel have been informed that they will not continue service in the regular cadre. The process of completing the four-year term for the first batch is approaching. Personnel personally received information regarding the results of their selection. Although the Air Force has not officially disclosed these data, sources report that the selection process is nearly complete.
The selection was based on established criteria, which include performance indicators during the term of service and organizational needs. According to the Agnipath scheme, no more than 25 percent of personnel in each batch can be inducted into the permanent forces. The remaining personnel transition to civilian life after the completion of their service period. The government has developed initiatives for skill recognition and employment for these individuals.
After the completion of the first cycle over four years, all three armed forces reviewed the Agnipath scheme. Senior officers of the Indian Air Force stated that the service provided its recommendations based on experience. A high-ranking official from the Ministry of Defence confirmed that the Army, Navy, and Air Force have submitted their proposals to the Department of Military Affairs. These proposals are based on the experience of recruitment, training, and personnel management since the scheme's introduction in 2022. All data received from all services has been compiled and forwarded to a senior official for consideration. Details of the proposals have not been published, and they should not be considered approved changes to the scheme; the final decision rests with the competent authority.
The government has provided measures for employment for those leaving service after four years. The Ministry of Home Affairs announced in July 2026 that 50 percent of vacancies for constable (general duty) and private positions in the Central Armed Police Forces and Assam Rifles will be reserved for ex-servicemen. A three-year deferment on the age limit was also provided, along with an additional five-year deferment for the first batch. Eligible candidates are exempted from physical testing, physical fitness checks, and written examinations. The Ministry of Home Affairs has also created a specialized unit to coordinate the employment of ex-servicemen.
The Ministry of Defence has approved a reservation of 10 percent for suitable personnel in the Indian Coast Guard, civil defense posts, and 16 public sector undertakings in the defence sector. These provisions differ from the structure of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
State governments are also taking measures for the employment of ex-servicemen. The state of Haryana has taken steps to implement horizontal reservation for ex-servicemen who are native residents of the state. The state of Chhattisgarh has announced the allocation of 10 percent quotas for constables in the police, forest inspectors in the forest department, and wardens in the prison department. The state of Assam has approved a 12 percent reservation for ex-servicemen who are native residents of the state in the police and related forces by October 2026. The volume, percentage, and timelines for applying these benefits vary depending on the state and the batch category. Candidates must meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
The Agnipath scheme began in 2022 and stipulates a four-year service period, including training, with up to 25 percent potentially being inducted into the permanent force. Individuals leaving service receive a maintenance package and can seek opportunities in government services, security forces, defence enterprises, and the private sector.
This IAF process is an important stage in the implementation of the scheme. The experience of all three armed forces, the reviewed proposals, and the effectiveness of rehabilitation measures will play a crucial role in the comprehensive evaluation of the scheme. Currently, the IAF selection and exit process is nearing completion.