BSF fortifies village guards initiative with arms training for Jammu border residents, Pg4

Key Highlights:

• BSF begins arms training for Village Defence Guards (VDGs) near the Jammu-Pakistan border.
• Civilians are being trained as a “second line of defence” in response to terrorist infiltration.
• VDG initiative was revived in 2022 after a 20-year gap due to renewed terror threats.
• 52,000+ CAPF personnel sanctioned for security during the Amarnath Yatra (July 3 – Aug 9).
• Yatra route security heightened after April 22 terror attack in Baisaran, Pahalgam (26 killed).

Detailed Insights:

• The VDG program equips local residents to support security forces in remote and infiltration-prone areas, especially in border districts like Rajouri and Poonch.
• The move comes amid growing threats from cross-border terrorism and local insurgency, especially in the Chenab Valley and south of Pir Panjal.
• Civilian involvement aims to improve early warning mechanisms and bolster area domination in difficult terrain.
• The revival of VDGs is a throwback to the erstwhile Village Defence Committees (VDCs), which were disbanded due to misuse and legal concerns.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Second Line of Defence: A strategic concept where civilians or auxiliary forces support frontline troops to enhance security depth and resilience.
• Village Defence Guards (VDGs): Civilian volunteers trained and armed by the government to provide localized defence against insurgency and terrorism.
• CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces): Paramilitary forces under the Ministry of Home Affairs, including CRPF, BSF, ITBP, and others, deployed for internal security.

Mains Mock Question:

Critically examine the role of Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in India’s internal security architecture. What are the potential benefits and risks of involving civilians in counterinsurgency operations?