 |
|
A tragic incident unfolded at the Artillery School in Nashik, Maharashtra, claiming the lives of two young Agniveers during a firing practice. The incident, which occurred on Thursday afternoon, involved the explosion of a shell from an Indian field gun, resulting in the deaths of Gohil Vishwaraj Singh (20) and Saifat Shit (21). Both Agniveers, hailing from Hyderabad, were undergoing training at the school and were identified as Gunners.
The news of the accident sent shockwaves through the nation, highlighting the inherent risks associated with military training. The Indian Army promptly confirmed the incident, stating that a court of inquiry had been established to determine the precise cause of the explosion. While the initial reports suggested that the shell malfunctioned during the firing practice, the investigation is expected to shed light on the specific factors contributing to the tragic event.
The incident also drew attention to the 'Agnipath' scheme, a recruitment program launched by the Indian Armed Forces in June 2022, which has been a subject of controversy. Under the scheme, individuals are inducted into the armed forces for a four-year tenure, including six months of initial training and 3.5 years of deployment. At the end of the tenure, a limited number of Agniveers are selected for permanent positions within the armed forces.
The 'Agnipath' scheme has faced criticism, with opposition parties arguing that it diminishes the benefits and long-term career prospects of Agniveers compared to traditional soldiers. However, the government has defended the scheme, highlighting its benefits in terms of modernization, increased youth participation, and the creation of a highly skilled pool of veterans. The incident in Nashik serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those serving in the armed forces and the need for stringent safety measures and thorough investigations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Source: Two Agniveers killed as shell explodes during firing exercise in Maharashtra's Nashik