New Delhi: In a first since the Agnipath scheme’s launch, two Agniveers have been awarded the Sena Medal (Gallantry) for their exceptional courage during Operation Sindoor, ThePrint has learnt.
A third Agniveer has been mentioned in dispatches for distinguished service in the same operation, according to sources in the defence establishment.
This marks the first time that Agniveers have received Gallantry awards. Agniveers are short-term recruits under the Agnipath scheme, introduced in June 2022.
Under the Agnipath scheme, youth are inducted into the armed forces for a four-year term, with an option for 25 percent of them to be absorbed into the regular ranks, based on performance. The remaining 75 percent exit the service with a severance package, skill certification, and employment assistance.
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, earlier in March, praised the scheme’s effectiveness, calling it a success in attracting high-calibre candidates to the Army. The “crème de la crème is coming to the Army through the scheme. Their urge to learn is comparatively high, and as far as their capability to deliver is concerned, they are delivering”, he said.
The Sena Medal (Gallantry) is conferred by the Indian Army to recognise acts of outstanding courage or devotion to duty that hold particular importance for the force.
On Thursday, the Indian government announced gallantry awards for 36 Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel in recognition of their pivotal roles in Operation Sindoor.
(Edited by Madhurita Goswami)
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