Security forces intensify training of VDGs in Jammu region amid terrorist sightings

With an increase in terrorist sightings in parts of the Jammu region, security forces have intensified the training of Village Defence Guards (VDGs), who are considered the first line of defence in far-flung areas of the division. The Army, Border Security Force (BSF), and Jammu and Kashmir Police are actively providing arms training to VDGs in the border areas of Kathua, Jammu, and Samba, as well as in the mountainous belts of Udhampur, Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri and Poonch.

There have been multiple brief encounters between security forces and terrorists in forest areas of these districts over the past one and a half years. Most of the terrorists involved in these gunfights are still at large. In recent times, as snow has covered the high mountain passes, terrorists have reportedly started moving down to the hilly areas, posing a serious security threat to local villagers. These terrorists often enter homes and demand food and mobile phones. In a similar incident on January 1, 2023, in Dhangri village of Rajouri district, a group of terrorists killed seven members of the Hindu community. After a VDG fired shots at the terrorists, they fled the scene. The Sabre Brigade under the Rising Star Corps of the Army conducted intensive training for VDGs at Purmandal in Jammu on Thursday. The training included weapon handling, firing practice, and battle drills to bolster community defence.

VDGs also actively perform patrol duties alongside security forces in forest and other sensitive areas of the region. There have been several instances in which VDGs were killed or injured during encounters with terrorists. However, following the resurgence of Pakistan-backed terrorism in parts of the Jammu region in recent years, many VDGs have been provided with semi-automatic weapons to counter the threat.

The BSF recently conducted weapon-handling training for VDGs at Pindi Charkalan village in Arnia along the International Border in Jammu district. An official said the training aimed to enhance operational readiness, ensure safe handling of weapons, and strengthen community security in border areas.

Similar training programmes were also held in border areas of Akhnoor, where infiltration attempts by terrorists have been reported in recent times.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police are also making concerted efforts to train VDGs in the mountainous belts of the region. A training programme was held by the police in the Arnas area of Reasi district some time ago.

DISCLAIMER:                                                                                                                                                                

The views expressed in the Article above are Author’s personal views and kashmiribhatta.in is not in any way responsible for the opinions expressed in the above article. The article belongs to its respective owner or owners and this site does not claim any right over it.          

Courtesy: The Tribune -26-Dec-2025