New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the first batch of Agniveers of the three services via video conferencing on Monday. The first batch has commenced basic training. PM Modi congratulated the first batch for being the pioneers of the historic Agnipath Scheme. He highlighted that this transformative policy will be a game changer in strengthening Indian forces and making them ready for the challenges of the future.
PM Modi affirmed that the contribution of young Agniveers to the armed forces will make it more youthful and tech-savvy.
"Efforts underway to modernise our armed forces as well as make them Aatmanirbhar," PM Modi told the first batch of Agniveers, as per a statement by his office.
While praising the potential of Agniveers, he said that their spirit is reflective of the bravery of the armed forces which has always kept the flag of this nation flying high in the sky. The experience that you will acquire through this opportunity will be a source of pride in your life, said PM Modi.
The way wars are fought is changing in the 21st century, he explained how technologically-advanced soldiers will play a key role in the armed forces while discussing the new fronts of contactless warfare and the challenges posed by cyber warfare. The Prime Minister believes that the current generation especially the youth has this potential and therefore, they will play a key role for our forces in the times to come, the PMO statement mentioned.
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He also spoke about how this scheme will play a role in empowering women further. He said that he looks forward to seeing women Agniveers in all three forces while expressing happiness over how they are adding pride to the Naval forces. He highlighted how women are leading armed forces on various fronts by citing examples of women soldiers posted in Siachen and the ones driving modern fighter planes.
Agniveers will be getting posted in different regions. PM Modi said that this will give candidates an opportunity to get diverse experiences and they should try to learn about different cultures, ways of living, and languages while they are posted there.
Honing leadership skills and teamwork will add a new dimension to the personality of Agniveers, PM Mosi said. He urged the candidates to remain curious about learning new things while working to improve their skills further in the fields of their choice, at the same time.
PM Modi concluded by hailing that the potential of youth and Agnivveers by saying that they are the ones who will provide leadership to the nation in the 21st century.