Agnipath Scheme Budget 2024: The Agnipath scheme, aimed at reducing India's defence salary and pension bills, is facing significant criticism from various quarters, including opposition parties and BJP allies. Military experts and veterans argue that the scheme, intended to cut pension expenses, could compromise combat readiness amid rising regional threats. India's defence budget, increasingly strained by personnel costs, may prioritize modernization efforts in the upcoming Union Budget, set to be unveiled on July 23, to address these concerns and sustain operational capabilities.