UP Cabinet Approves 20% Reservation for Ex-Agniveers in State Jobs

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by the Chief Minister, has approved a 20% horizontal reservation for former Agniveers in direct recruitment to state government posts. The quota specifically applies to recruitments for Jail Warders in the Prisons Department and Enforcement Constables in the State Transport Department, providing structured post-military career pathways.

Launched by the Union Government in June 2022, the Agnipath scheme recruits youth into the Armed Forces for a four-year tenure, after which 25% are retained in regular service while 75% transition back to civilian life. To absorb these trained personnel into public service, both central paramilitary forces and state governments are instituting targeted reservation frameworks and age relaxations.

Under the approved proposal, former Agniveers will receive relaxed physical fitness criteria, age concessions, and a dedicated 20% horizontal quota within direct recruitment quotas. Additionally, the Cabinet approved complementary infrastructure decisions, including transferring land for an NSG regional hub in Ayodhya and establishing an ethanol production facility in Mathura.

This policy decision is vital for state and national competitive examinations. SSC and State PCS exams will directly test key figures, such as the 20% quota percentage and specific departments included. For UPSC Mains GS Paper II and III, it serves as a practical example of rehabilitation policies, manpower management following military reforms, and inter-governmental policy alignment.