Assam approves 12% job quota for former Agniveers from next year

The Assam government has approved 12 per cent horizontal reservation for eligible former Agniveers in specified posts across key departments, with annual recruitment drives to begin next year.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the state cabinet's approval on X on Tuesday, October 27, saying those who had served the nation with courage would get new ways to serve Assam. He described the move as recognising service and valuing discipline.

What the notification says

A government notification sets out guidelines for recruitment, horizontal reservation and certain relaxations for ex-Agniveers who are permanent residents of Assam.

• The quota is 12 per cent of annual direct recruitment vacancies against covered posts.
• Recruitment will be held through a drive conducted every year, starting next year.
• It applies only to permanent residents of Assam who joined under the Agnipath Scheme notified by the Ministry of Defence.
• Candidates must have completed the full four-year engagement in the Army, Navy or Air Force and received the official certificate on discharge.

What horizontal reservation means

Horizontal reservation cuts across the vertical categories such as SC, ST and OBC. A former Agniveer selected under the quota is placed in their own social category, so the benefit adds to existing reservations rather than creating a separate block of seats.

About the Agnipath Scheme

The Agnipath Scheme was introduced by the Centre in 2022 to recruit soldiers below the rank of commissioned officer into the three services on short-term engagements. Since most Agniveers leave after four years, several central forces and states have announced job quotas or relaxations for them.

Who benefits

The first batches recruited under Agnipath are approaching the end of their four-year terms. Assam's quota is aimed at bringing those from the state back into government service at home.

What candidates should do

Eligible ex-Agniveers should keep their discharge certificate and permanent residence documents ready. The posts covered and the vacancies will be listed in recruitment notifications when the first drive is announced. Aspirants should follow official advertisements from the state government and its recruitment bodies.