Nagaland to host IAF recruitment rally after 10 years gap

Kohima, June 23 (MExN): Nagaland will host an open recruitment rally for the Indian Air Force’s Agniveervayu scheme in September 2026, marking the first such exercise in the State in a decade, a DIPR report said on Tuesday.

The decision was finalised at a meeting chaired by the Special Secretary (Home) on June 10 at the Conference Room of the Principal Secretary (Home) in Kohima, which saw participation from the Home Department and other key state departments.

Wing Commander A Muralidharan, Commanding Officer, IAF, briefed the gathering on the benefits of the Agniveer Scheme and noted that youth from Nagaland and other Northeastern states have not been able to fully avail of such opportunities due to limited awareness and lower participation in the past. He informed that the upcoming rally would be open to both male and female candidates under the Agniveervayu (Non-Technical) category.

The Wing Commander also reminded that the IAF is conducting a recruitment rally in Nagaland “after a gap of 10 years” and requested the State government to extend all possible assistance, including vehicles and accommodation for around 5 to 7 officers and about 70 Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers for the smooth conduct of the exercise.

After deliberations, it was decided that the rally would tentatively be held at the Nagaland Armed Police Training Centre (NAPTC), Chümoukedima, given that the centre already possesses most of the infrastructure and logistical facilities required for the recruitment process.

A set of department-wise responsibilities was also finalised to ensure smooth execution. The Police Headquarters was asked to appoint a Nodal Officer from the 1st NAP, Chümoukedima, to liaise with IAF authorities, while the Commissioner's Office was requested to direct the Deputy Commissioner, Chümoukedima, to extend administrative support.

The Health & Family Welfare Department will depute a medical team headed by two doctors, along with supporting staff and an ambulance, for the duration of the event. The School Education Department will provide four teachers through the District Education Officer, Chümoukedima, to assist with verification and authentication of candidates’ documents.

The Home Department will coordinate with the PHQ to arrange transportation facilities, while the Department of Information & Public Relations has been tasked with ensuring wide publicity through printed banners and electronic, digital and social media platforms across all districts. The Inspector General of Fire Services was also requested to provide one fire tender for exigent duties.

It was further decided that the Indian Air Force would issue the recruitment advertisement, along with detailed eligibility criteria and qualification requirements, at least 45 days before the rally to ensure maximum awareness and participation among aspiring candidates.