In a major initiative to prepare the state’s youth for careers in the armed forces, the Uttarakhand government has launched a free pre-recruitment training programme under the Agniveer scheme, aimed at helping young aspirants qualify for recruitment in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Our correspondent reports that the eight-week training will be conducted across all districts of the state, providing candidates with physical fitness preparation, written test guidance, and motivational sessions led by trained instructors and retired defence personnel. The programme seeks to ensure that Uttarakhand’s youth are better equipped to succeed in the competitive Agnipath recruitment process.
The training is open to both male and female candidates who are domiciles of Uttarakhand or are currently studying or employed in the state. Applicants must be at least 16 years old and have secured a minimum of 45 percent marks in their high-school examinations and at least 33 percent in each subject. Candidates will also need to provide a medical fitness certificate and must register at their respective district youth welfare or sports offices to participate.
Our correspondent adds that the training sessions will be held in district sports stadiums and outdoor grounds, where participants will undergo rigorous obstacle training, running, stamina building, and group drills. Instructors from the Youth Welfare Department and Sports Department will supervise the activities. The state government has made it mandatory for trainees to wear a sports kit and maintain discipline throughout the course. Visible tattoos or permanent markings will not be permitted, as per the eligibility guidelines for Agniveer recruitment.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, while announcing the programme, said the initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to empowering Uttarakhand’s youth and upholding the state’s rich legacy of military service. He stated that the training will not only enhance physical and mental readiness but also instil a sense of patriotism and discipline among the participants.
He further said that the government is committed to ensuring long-term welfare for ex-Agniveers by providing 10 percent horizontal reservation in Group C posts under various uniformed services, including the police, fire service, forest department, and disaster response units. The Chief Minister added that the programme will create a structured pathway for the youth to enter national service while building resilience and self-reliance.
Experts believe that the state’s proactive approach to the Agniveer recruitment process will strengthen Uttarakhand’s position as a leading contributor to the armed forces. They note that the initiative will also provide meaningful employment opportunities for the youth in remote and hilly regions where career options are often limited.
Officials from the Youth Welfare Department said that the registration process has already begun and that participants will receive free coaching materials, medical check-ups, and guidance from defence veterans. The department aims to train a large number of aspirants across all 13 districts in the coming months.
The launch of this free Agniveer training programme highlights the state’s efforts to align skill development and employment policies with national defence objectives. By equipping young people with the necessary training and support, the government hopes to expand their career prospects and reinforce Uttarakhand’s proud tradition of service to the nation.
