20% reservation to Ex-Agniveers in Police, Fire Service by UP Government

The government of Uttar Pradesh has officially given a 20% horizontal reservation for ex-Agniveers within the state police and fire departments. In a government order issued on June 6, the move reflects the state's intent for reintegration of the Agniveers into life in civil society after serving for four years under the Agnipath scheme.

This was decided during a cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. UP Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna, while speaking to the media, stated, "This is to give worthwhile civilian employment to those who are serving in the armed forces under the Agnipath scheme. It is not a job offer—it's a recognition of their discipline, commitment, and ability to serve."

Important Points of the Ex-Agniveer Reservation Policy in UP:

20% horizontal reservation of ex-Agniveers in filling posts such as Police Constable, PAC Constable, Mounted Police, and Fireman.

The reservation would be applied across all social classes—General, SC, ST, and OBC. For instance, if an ex-Agniveer belongs to the OBC class, the reservation shall be provided within OBC quotas.

Relaxation of 3 years of age for ex-Agniveers under this scheme. The first batch of likely recruits is likely to apply in 2026, after four years of service in the armed forces.

The decision comes on the heels of other states like Haryana and Odisha that had offered 10% reservation to retired Agniveers. Uttar Pradesh, however, beats them all with a more generous 20% quota for the specific skill set and rigour these young warriors bring.

This programme supports the intent of the Agnipath defence recruitment programme launched by the Centre in 2022. The idea was to form a young, agile defence force and also make Agniveers job-sufficient for the public and private spheres in he later part of their lives.

Uttar Pradesh not only enhances post-service opportunities for Agniveers but also enhances internal security and emergency response preparedness with a highly skilled workforce.