The Sikh Regiment has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar, to empower Agniveers through education and skill development,
The collaboration will enable Agniveers serving in the Sikh Regiment to pursue higher education alongside their military duties. Under the initiative, Agniveers will have access to diploma programmes that can be completed within six months, as well as undergraduate degree programmes such as Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Computer Applications and Bachelor of Commerce, which can be completed within three years.
The initiative aims to enhance the academic qualifications, professional competencies and long-term career prospects of Agniveers, equipping them with valuable skills for both military and civilian careers, a defence spokesperson said on Thursday.
This collaboration reflects the Sikh Regiment’s enduring commitment to the holistic development and welfare of its soldiers. It also aligns with the Government of India’s vision of creating a skilled, educated and future-ready youth force capable of contributing effectively to nation-building, he added.
The Sikh Regiment is among the Indian Army’s oldest and most highly decorated Infantry regiments, tracing its origins to 1846 as part of the Bengal Army of the erstwhile British East India Company.
At present, comprising 20 regular infantry battalions and three Territorial Army battalions, the regiment draws its manpower exclusively from the Jat Sikh community.
Guided by its ethos of “Service Before Self,” the Sikh Regiment continues to invest in the growth and empowerment of its Agniveers, ensuring their personal and professional development during and beyond their service to the nation, an official statement said.
The Army had introduced the Agnipath scheme in 2022 under which soldiers, termed as Agniveers, are required to serve for a period of four years after which 25 per cent would be absorbed into the regular cadre and the remaining would be discharged from service with a tax-free compensation package. The period of service is currently under review with proposals to extend the service period and increase intake into the permanent cadre being examined.
