New Delhi, Jan 16 (FN Agency) Addressing the first batch of Agniveers who have commenced their basic training, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday termed the Agnipath scheme a “game changer in strengthening armed forces” and making them future ready to meet the challenges. The Prime Minister, addressing virtually, congratulated the Agniveers on being the pioneers of the path-breaking Agnipath Scheme, the PMO said.Discussing the new fronts of contactless warfare and challenges of cyber warfare, he said that technologically advanced soldiers will play a key role in armed forces, the PMO added. He added the current generation of youth especially have this potential, and so the “Agniveers will play a leading role in our armed forces in the times to come. “He affirmed that the young Agniveers will make the Armed Forces more youthful and tech savvy. Hailing 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 the nation flying high, the PMO added.
He said that the experience which they will acquire through this opportunity will be a source of pride for life. Modi said that New India is filled with renewed vigour, and efforts are underway to modernise the armed forces as well as make them Aatmanirbhar.Modi also spoke about how the scheme will further empower women. He expressed happiness at how women Agniveers are adding pride to the Naval forces, and said that he looks forward to seeing women Agniveers in all three forces, the PMO said. He also recalled how women are leading armed forces on various fronts, citing examples of woman soldier posted in Siachen and women driving modern fighter planes.Modi said that getting posted in different regions will give them an opportunity to get diverse experiences and that they should try to learn different languages and also about different cultures and ways of living. Modi exhorted Agniveers to remain curious about learning new things while simultaneously working on bettering their skills in the fields of their choice. Hailing the potential of youth and Agniveers, Prime Minister concluded by saying that they are the ones who are going to provide leadership to the nation in the 21st century.