What Are VDGs and How Are They Equipped to Combat Terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir

Kashmir, India: The Village Defence Guards (VDGs), initially known as Village Defence Committees, were established in the mid-1990s in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. This civilian militia was created for the self-defence of locals, especially Hindus, in remote hilly villages against militancy. Comprised of villagers and police officers, the VDGs have played a crucial role in maintaining security in the region.  

On August 15, 2022, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir officially sanctioned the creation of the VDG. Members of these groups receive a monthly remuneration of 4,000-4,500 Indian rupees (approximately $48-$54). 

Will VDGs Get Modernised Equipment? 

Reports indicate that the government is planning to replace the outdated .303 rifles currently used by VDGs with modern Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs). This move aims to strengthen their ability to combat militant threats effectively, especially in light of recent terror attacks. The Lee-Enfield .303 is a bolt-action, magazine-fed rifle that served as the main firearm of the British Empire and Commonwealth forces during the first half of the 20th century.

The L1A1 Self-Loading Rifle (SLR), a more advanced, semi-automatic battle rifle, was adopted by numerous armed forces globally, including those of the United Kingdom, Australia, and India. The VDG members are expected to be better equipped and more effective in countering militant activities with these new rifles. This upgrade is part of a broader effort to enhance the security and safety of vulnerable communities in Jammu and Kashmir. 

As of December 2019, there were 4,125 Village Defence Committees in Jammu and Kashmir, with a significant number of these groups actively engaged in safeguarding their communities. In the Kishtwar district alone, the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) set up new VDCs, consisting of over 3,251 members, 800 of whom are armed. The Indian Army supports these groups by conducting training camps focused on weapons training and intelligence gathering.

These efforts aim to enhance the operational capabilities of the VDCs, enabling them to better protect the Indian communities from terrorist threats. The primary aim of the Village Defence Guards Scheme is to organize small groups of volunteer armed civilians in identified villages, particularly along borders and in-depth areas of the Jammu division. These groups are responsible for protecting community installations, and infrastructure, and preventing the trans-border movement of terrorists.  

VDGs conduct systematic night and day patrolling to ensure the security of their assigned areas. Villages previously covered by the earlier scheme are considered "more vulnerable areas" and continue to receive support under the revised scheme. New areas identified by law enforcement agencies as vulnerable will also be included. Each VDG group consists of up to 15 armed civilians, selected based on their credentials and the security requirements of their village. 

How are the VDGs structured to operate? 

VDG members include individuals with valid arms licenses, those provided with weapons by the J&K Police, and those willing to purchase their own weapons. Each group is led by a retired officer from the Army, CPMF, or J&K Police, and operates on a voluntary basis.  

The district administration carefully selects members from among ex-servicemen, ex-policemen, and able-bodied young men proficient in handling arms. Each Village Defence Group functions under the supervision of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of the concerned district. They are authorized to use police wireless facilities for communication and coordination.  

Local village officials, such as the Village Chowkidar and Lumberdar, are instructed to assist the VDGs in their duties. The District Magistrate is responsible for integrating the VDGs with existing security forces' deployment, ensuring optimal utilization of manpower and weapons. This coordinated effort aims to enhance the overall security grid in Jammu and Kashmir, effectively countering terrorist threats inspired and supported from across the border.