Agnipath scheme, crucial discussion tomorrow, service chiefs to meet Prime Minister

NEW DELHI:Three service chiefs will meet the Prime Minister tomorrow as protests continue in the country over the Agnipath scheme. Chiefs of Indiam Army, Navy and Air Force will discuss the issue with PM Narendra Modi. They are likely to discuss the suggestions, concerns and changes regarding the scheme.

The Centre had earlier announced that it would not back down from the Agnipath project. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also came out with a response to the scheme. He said that even if some decisions seems unfair at first, it will benefit the country in the long run. 'Decisions that now seem unjust, will help in building the nation', said Modi. The Prime Minister made this remark at a public function in Bengaluru without direct reference to Agnipath project.

The scheme will employ 46,000 people this year and 50,000-60,000 people in the next four to five years. This would later be increased to 90,000– 1.25 lakhs. At present the total strength of the Army, Navy and Air Force is 14 lakhs. The goal is to reduce this step by step. These issues will also be a major topic of discussion.