Rakesh Tikait’s SKM to Stage Nationwide Protest Against ‘Agnipath’ Scheme

In a significant move, Rakesh Tikait, the prominent farmer leader and national spokesperson of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), announced that the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) will hold a nationwide protest against the Agnipath military recruitment scheme on June 24, 2022. This decision was made during a coordination committee meeting in Karnal, Haryana, reflecting growing dissent among various societal groups regarding the scheme

The Agnipath Scheme, introduced by the Indian government in June 2022, is a military recruitment initiative aimed at enlisting soldiers for a four-year tenure, after which only a select percentage would be retained for longer service. While intended to modernize the armed forces and reduce pension liabilities, the scheme has faced criticism for its potential to create job insecurity among youth and reduce long-term benefits for soldiers. 

SKM’s Stand Against Agnipath

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha, a coalition of over 40 farmers’ organizations, has expressed strong opposition to the Agnipath scheme. Rakesh Tikait emphasized that the scheme is “anti-youth” and “anti-farmer,” arguing that it undermines the future of young aspirants and the integrity of the armed forces. The SKM plans to organize peaceful protests at district and tehsil headquarters across the country, urging participation from youth, civil society, and political parties.

Reasons for Opposition

1. Job Insecurity: Critics argue that the short-term nature of the Agnipath scheme offers limited career prospects for recruits, leaving them uncertain about their future after the four-year tenure.
2. Lack of Benefits: Unlike traditional military service, Agnipath recruits, known as ‘Agniveers,’ may not receive pensions or other long-term benefits, raising concerns about their welfare post-service.
3. Impact on Rural Youth: Many rural youths, especially from farming backgrounds, view military service as a stable career path. The new scheme’s temporary nature could deter them from enlisting, affecting both military recruitment and rural employment.
   

Nationwide Protest Plans

The SKM has scheduled the nationwide protest for June 24, 2022, with demonstrations planned at various district and tehsil headquarters. The organization aims to mobilize widespread participation, emphasizing peaceful methods to voice their concerns. The BKU, initially planning a separate protest on June 30, has decided to merge its efforts with the SKM’s June 24 demonstration.                                                 

Broader Support and Alliances

The protest against the Agnipath scheme has garnered support from various groups beyond the farming community. Ex-servicemen, youth organizations, and civil society groups have joined hands with the SKM, reflecting a broad consensus against the scheme’s perceived shortcomings. This coalition aims to amplify the protest’s impact and pressurize the government to reconsider the scheme. 

Government’s Response

While the government maintains that the Agnipath scheme is a step towards a more youthful and dynamic military, it has faced significant backlash. Protests have erupted in various parts of the country, with demonstrators demanding a rollback of the scheme. The government’s response has included assurances about post-service opportunities for Agniveers, but skepticism remains among the populace

The SKM’s decision to lead a nationwide protest against the Agnipath scheme underscores the deep-seated concerns among farmers, youth, and other societal groups. As the June 24 protest approaches, all eyes will be on the government’s response and the protest’s impact on policy decisions. The unfolding events will significantly influence the discourse around military recruitment and youth employment in India.