New Guidelines for Agniveers: Marriage Ban Before Permanent Soldier Status

The Indian Army has announced new guidelines for Agniveers, mandating that those wishing to transition to permanent soldier status must remain unmarried during their selection process. This rule, applicable to the 2022 batch, aims to maintain discipline and operational readiness. With an estimated 20,000 Agniveers set to complete their service in mid-2026, only a fraction will be selected for permanent roles based on various criteria. Discover the full details of this significant policy change and its impact on young soldiers.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 6, 2026, 14:13 IST

Important Update on Agniveer Recruitment

New Delhi, January 6, 2026: The Indian Army has issued a significant new directive regarding the process for Agniveers recruited under the Agnipath scheme to join the permanent cadre. According to the new regulations, Agniveers who wish to become permanent soldiers after completing four years of service must remain unmarried until the selection process is finalized. If any Agniveer marries during this period, they will be disqualified from permanent appointment, regardless of their performance.

The Army has clarified that Agniveers are already prohibited from marrying during their four-year service period. This restriction will now extend beyond their service completion. The selection process for permanent status typically lasts between four to six months after service ends, and candidates must remain unmarried until the final selection results are announced.

This rule specifically applies to the 2022 batch of Agniveers, whose service is set to conclude in June-July 2026. It is estimated that around 20,000 Agniveers from this batch will be released from service, with only 25 percent being selected for the permanent cadre based on merit, service records, written exams, and physical fitness tests.

The Army states that this regulation is essential for maintaining discipline and enhancing operational readiness. The recruitment age for Agniveers typically ranges from 17.5 to 21 years, making this policy crucial for ensuring the focus and dedication of young soldiers.