JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat on Wednesday praised the role of Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in safeguarding border areas and said the police would not hesitate to induct exceptional volunteers into the regular force for outstanding contribution in counter-terrorism operations.
Interacting with more than 110 VDG members in a forward village near the International Border in R S Pura sector, Prabhat urged them to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with J&K Police and security agencies in maintaining peace and strengthening the security grid.
“We will reward them for their exceptional work and bravery,” the DGP told reporters during his visit, adding that the objective of the interaction was to enhance coordination, operational cooperation and training. “We listened to their issues and thanked them for their vital role in the overall security structure of J&K Police,” he said.
The DGP was accompanied by Inspector General of Police, Jammu zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, DIG BSF Chiter Pal, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Shiv Kumar Sharma and SSP Jammu Joginder Singh, a police spokesperson said.
During the address, Prabhat highlighted threats emerging from across the border, including drone droppings, tunnelling and riverine infiltration. He said border residents have historically stood alongside police and forces in combating terrorism, making their participation crucial.
He informed that the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for smooth functioning of VDGs had been framed in coordination with the BSF, stressing the need for their implementation at ground level to further secure the border belt. He also called for preventive strategies through capacity building, coordination and community vigilance.
“VDG service is voluntary and not a guarantee of employment, but for demonstrable gallantry or outstanding counter-terror contributions, the police will not hesitate to induct them using the powers of the Police Establishment Board,” Prabhat added.
The VDGs were also briefed on safe handling, periodic cleaning and maintenance of government-issued arms and ammunition. Prabhat described VDGs as the first tier of the security grid and appreciated their contribution to intelligence gathering, efforts during Operation Sindoor and flood situations.
IG Jammu also outlined measures to streamline VDG functioning, including assigning unique identification to groups and members for monitoring performance.
Later, the DGP visited Border Police Post Chakrohi and Police Station R S Pura where he reviewed the security situation and issued on-the-spot directions to strengthen manpower and upgrade the security framework in border areas.
