CHENNAI: The selection process for the Agni Veer cadre in the Indian Air Force began on Wednesday at the Air Force Station in Tambaram. The recruitment drive is scheduled to continue until September 5.

The first day witnessed a significant turnout with over 2,000 aspirants from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana gathering at the airbase.

Personnel from the Tambaram City Police Commissionerate were deployed to manage the crowd by setting up barricades and organising queues. The recruitment is being conducted on a state-wise basis.

Candidates from Kerala and Karnataka are slated for assessment on August 30 followed by those from Tamil Nadu on September 2. A dedicated session for women from these states will be held on September 5.

Security was stringent at the venue. All candidates were required to present their ID cards, including Aadhaar, and relevant certificates for verification before granted entry into the station. Their personal belongings were also subjected to thorough checks.

The selection process is rigorous and consists of a written examination, a physical fitness test, and a medical examination. Successful candidates will undergo training and serve in the IAF for 4 years.

Around 50,000 to 60,000 recruits are slated to be enrolled across the country this year. After their four-year service tenure, only 25% of these Agniveers will be permitted to continue for an additional 15 years under the permanent commission scheme.