Dhami Approves Induction of Two First-Batch Agniveers Into Uttarakhand PAC Battalion
Dehradun, October 16, 2026: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has approved the induction of two Agniveers from the first batch recruited under the Agnipath scheme into the 40th Battalion of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), marking the first such appointment in the state government’s uniformed services. The two personnel are due to complete their four-year tenure with the Indian Army and be released from service in November 2026. Their induction will be made against existing vacant posts in the battalion.
The decision came after a formal communication from a Joint Secretary in the Government of India, who informed the Uttarakhand government that the first batch of Agniveers recruited under the scheme would complete their service in November 2026. The letter specifically requested that two Agniveers from Uttarakhand be accommodated. Acting on that request, the Chief Minister authorised their placement in the 40th PAC Battalion.
The move is being seen as the first instance of Agniveers being appointed to uniformed posts in the state government system. It also reflects the post-service employment pathway envisaged under the Agnipath scheme, which was launched in June 2022 to recruit personnel on fixed-term contractual terms in the armed forces.
Dhami said the scheme was instilling discipline, service to the nation and dedication to duty among young people. “The Agnipath scheme is fostering a spirit of discipline, service to the nation, and dedication to duty among the youth of our country. The skills, experience, and discipline that Agniveers acquire during their service in the Indian Army constitute an invaluable asset to the nation,” he said.
He added that the state government valued the contribution and capability of Agniveers and wanted to create further opportunities for those who had already served the country. According to him, this would allow Uttarakhand to benefit from their military experience, discipline and proficiency.
The development also comes against the backdrop of a broader state-level policy for ex-Agniveers. According to reports, the Uttarakhand cabinet, in a recent meeting held in Haridwar, decided to exempt retired Agniveers from the written examination and physical test for recruitment against the 10 per cent seats reserved for them in direct recruitment to uniformed Group ‘C’ posts in state services. These posts include positions in the police, PAC, forest guards and jail wards.
The approval illustrates coordination between the Centre and the state government in creating continued service opportunities for personnel completing their fixed-term military engagement. While this latest induction has been cleared, it remains subject to available vacancies and the relevant service requirements.
The state government has reiterated that it remains committed to supporting young people and recognising the contribution of those who serve the nation.
