Reasi, J&K – In a significant move to bolster the security infrastructure in the hilly and remote terrains of Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district, the police have established 97 new Village Defence Guard (VDG) groups, incorporating 1,164 new members. This initiative aims to expand the security grid and enhance the responsiveness to potential threats in these vulnerable areas.

The announcement came following a comprehensive review of the VDG deployment and security preparedness in the Arnas block, where hundreds of VDG members from remote villages gathered to interact with police officers. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Paramvir Singh, along with Additional SP Reasi, Deputy SP DAR, and SDPO Arnas, led the review at the firing butt near Rudd Pull, Arnas. The officers assessed the volunteers' readiness to counter any suspicious activity or security threats in the region.

During the field inspection, SSP Singh evaluated the deployment patterns, operational readiness, and integration of VDGs within the broader security framework. He also assessed their weapon-handling skills, firing accuracy, and overall response capabilities. Furthermore, the team monitored the ongoing firing practice conducted by the District Police Reasi, gaining insights into the VDGs' training experience under the supervision of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Army, following established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

As part of the Security Augmentation Plan 2024-25, the District Police Reasi has taken considerable steps to upgrade and restructure VDGs across the district. In addition to creating new VDG groups, authorities have inducted 1,902 additional members into existing groups to further strengthen village-level security. Simultaneously, 726 over-aged VDG members have been replaced with fitter and more active volunteers.

SSP Paramvir Singh emphasized the importance of continuous training, upgrading firing and weapon-handling skills, and strict adherence to SOPs to enhance the effectiveness of VDGs, especially in remote and sensitive areas. He also addressed the grievances and operational concerns raised by VDG members, assuring them of prompt and fair resolution.

VDGs consist of local volunteers who are trained and equipped to provide security in their villages, acting as the first line of defense against potential threats. These groups have been instrumental in assisting security forces in maintaining peace and order in the region, particularly in remote areas where regular police presence is limited. The expansion of VDGs in Reasi reflects a commitment to strengthening community-led security and empowering local residents to play an active role in safeguarding their villages.