The Agniveer scheme has sparked significant debate following the death of Agniveer Gawate Akshay Laxman in Siachen. Rahul Gandhi, a key Congress leader, has criticized the scheme, calling it an “insult” to Indian soldiers. He claims that the scheme fails to provide adequate benefits, such as pensions and other military facilities, to the families of deceased Agniveers. Gandhi has pledged to abolish the scheme if the opposition coalition comes to power In response, the Indian Army outlined the financial support given to Laxman’s family, including a one-time ex-gratia payment of Rs. 48 lakh, Rs. 8 lakh from the Armed Forces Battle Casualty Fund, and Rs. 30,000 from the Army Wives Welfare Association for immediate relief. The Army’s statement aimed to counter Gandhi’s accusations and demonstrate the support provided to Agniveer families. Additionally, BJP’s IT cell head Amit Malviya criticized Gandhi’s remarks, calling them “irresponsible” and asserting that Agniveers do receive appropriate benefits as battle casualties