The Agnipath Scheme, introduced in 2022, is a short-term military recruitment scheme that recruits young Indians (17.5 to 21 years) for a four-year term of service as Agniveers. They can be picked for longer-term positions after their four years based on performance.
‘Agniveer Vayu’ – What Does It Stand For
Agniveer Vayu is what is referred to as the Indian Air Force recruits who enter the force under this scheme. They receive military training and activities in tune with contemporary air defense requirements.
Recruitment Timeline & Key Dates
Intake 02/2026 (Online Application Phase)
Online applications were opened on July 11, 2025 and closed on August 4, 2025
Some previous reports erroneously mentioned a July 31 closing date but official sources affirm the August 4 deadline
Recruitment Rally & Offline Phases
Odisha Rally (Baripada)
Conducted August 27 to September 4, 2025, at Chhau Padia ground, Baripada. Thousands of youth across 12 states attended
Other States
Recruitment rallies are also being conducted in August–September 2025 across Chennai (TN), Vadodara (GJ), Jalandhar (PB), Mumbai (MH), and Patna (BR).
In Vadodara (Air Force Station, Darjipura Camp), the rally began August 27, 2025 for Intake 01/2026.
Eligibility Criteria & Educational Requirements
Age: 17.5 to 21 years; birth dates ranging from July 2, 2005, to January 2 (or 3), 2009, depending on source
Education:
Science Stream: 10+2 with Physics, Mathematics, English (aggregate and English ≥50%).
Non-Science: 10+2 in any stream (aggregate and English ≥50%) or 2-year vocational certificate with necessary marks.
Application Process & Fee Details
How to Apply: Go to the official website, agnipathvayu.cdac.in, register through DigiLocker or email/phone OTP, fill the application form, and submit.
Fees: ₹550 plus GST for General, OBC, EWS, SC/ST categories
Breakdown of the Selection Process
Written Exam
Online/offline exam to measure basic aptitude; first stage.
Physical Fitness Tests
STD fitness standards (varies by stream and position).
Document & Medical Checks
Successful recruits are subjected to proper document verification and a medical checkup prior to final selection.
Salary, Incentives & Seva Nidhi Benefit
Four-yearly monthly salary build-up—initially about ₹30,000, increasing every year. A lump sum of Seva Nidhi (in the range of ₹10–11 lakh) after service. Other incentives include insurance cover and skill certificates for employability in the future.
What After Four Years?
By the end of the four-year term, a maximum of 25% of Agniveers can be inducted into the regular cadre based on individual merit and available vacancies. The rest are released with benefits
Why This Recruitment Matters
- It provides youth with a coveted chance to serve in the IAF, acquire technical competence, and potentially have a longer-term military profession.
- A part of the government’s larger objectives to transform force structure and increase youth employment.
Conclusion
If you’re a young cadet seeking a fulfilling stint within the Indian Air Force, the Agniveer Vayu Recruitment 2025 through the Agnipath Scheme is an opportunity of a lifetime. Having done your online application (July 11–August 4), you’ve already reached halfway to a transformational journey—through recruitment rallies, physical tests, and strict selection. Beyond serving the nation for four years, you’ll hone useable skills and possibly earn a permanent slot in the force. So gear up, stay informed, and embrace this path to pride an
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