||Black and White Digital News||

||Parvinder Singh November 09,2024 ||

Jammu : The recent tragic loss of two unarmed Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in the rugged Kuntwara forest of Kishtwar has accelerated the government’s push to arm these rural defenders with modern weaponry. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), aims to fortify the VDGs as frontline protectors against terror threats that have surged in mountain districts like Kishtwar and Doda.

Sources report that the process of upgrading VDGs’ weapons, already underway for the past six months, is now set to be expedited in response to heightened security challenges. As part of this effort, the VDG members will be equipped with Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs), replacing the outdated .303 rifles, which have long proven inadequate against the sophisticated M4 Carbines and assault rifles wielded by terrorists.

Boosted Training and Modernization for Enhanced Preparedness:

Before being fully equipped, VDG members are slated to undergo specialized training administered by multiple security agencies, including the Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police. This training, tailored to the demands of counter-terror operations, is crucial for preparing the VDGs to effectively handle the advanced weaponry and face increasingly complex terror scenarios.

In addition to upgraded arms, the government is amplifying financial support for VDGs. Under the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) scheme of Jammu and Kashmir, the MHA has sanctioned a monthly stipend to recognize the risks undertaken by these guards. The stipend will provide Rs 4500 to group leaders and Rs 4000 to other members, directly credited to their bank accounts, a decision made in consultation with Jammu and Kashmir authorities.

The Expanding Force: Growing Numbers and Enhanced Roles:

With 4985 VDGs officially sanctioned across Jammu and Kashmir, 4153 of whom are actively serving, the government is expanding their ranks to bolster community defenses in vulnerable areas such as Udhampur, Doda, Kishtwar, Reasi, Rajouri, and Poonch. The VDGs play a critical role as local defenders, and their presence has proven essential in mitigating the impact of terror incidents in remote communities.

The BJP and Jammu and Kashmir Government, recognizing the strategic value of a well-equipped VDG force, have prioritized the modernization of their armaments. According to sources, some members have already received their new SLRs, with the remaining upgrades set to continue in phased allocations, ensuring that all VDGs are sufficiently equipped in the near future.

A Sobering Loss: Two VDG Martyrs in Kishtwar:

The urgency of this modernization drive gained a tragic new dimension with the martyrdom of two unarmed VDG guards in Kishtwar. On Thursday evening, terrorists abducted the two guards, who were subsequently killed. This incident underscored the pressing need for the VDGs to possess adequate means of self-defense, as they face increasingly emboldened terror groups operating in the region.

The government’s response, involving both arms upgrades and advanced training, signals its commitment to addressing the unique security needs of Jammu and Kashmir’s rural defenders. By enhancing the VDGs’ capabilities, the MHA aims to safeguard communities and empower these local heroes to effectively counter any future threats.

Towards a Safer Tomorrow:

This comprehensive plan to strengthen VDGs through modern arms and structured support embodies the government’s dedication to community defense. Through these steps, the VDGs stand as a strengthened line of defense, upholding the resolve to combat terrorism and ensure the security of the people in Jammu and Kashmir’s most vulnerable districts.