Jammu, February 19 – An Agniveer allegedly shot himself dead with his service rifle at an army camp in Jammu, J&K, on Thursday, officials said.
The 24-year-old Agniveer, from Uttar Pradesh, was on guard duty at the Nagrota garrison when he allegedly took his own life around midnight.
The soldier died instantly, and his body was taken to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital for an autopsy.
The reason for the soldier's suicide is still under investigation. Police have started an inquest into the matter, officials said.
The Agnipath Scheme, launched by the Indian government in June 2022, recruits young people aged 17.5 to 23 years into the Army, Navy, and Air Force for a four-year term as Agniveers.
This short-term service aims to create a younger, more technically skilled, and disciplined workforce. After four years, 25% are permanently inducted into the permanent cadre based on performance, while the others receive a "Seva Nidhi" package.
The total service period is four years, including training. The monthly salary is Rs 30,000 in the first year, increasing to Rs 40,000 in the fourth year.
Other benefits include insurance coverage of Rs 48 lakh, disability compensation, and a certificate upon completion.
The objective of the scheme is to reduce the average age profile of the armed forces, to build a modern, technology-savvy fighting force, and to train young people in military values for the future.
Upon completion of the service, Agniveers receive a tax-free "Seva Nidhi" package of approximately Rs 11.71 lakh (including interest).