In a decisive move to combat the escalating threat of terrorism in the Jammu region, Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced the provision of advanced weaponry to Village Defence Guards (VDGs). This strategic measure aims to strengthen the capabilities of VDGs in safeguarding their communities and thwarting terrorist activities.
Village Defence Guards: A Revitalized Force Against Terror
The VDGs, also known as Village Defence Committees (VDCs), have been a crucial component of the security apparatus in the Jammu region since their inception in 1995. These civilian groups, primarily comprising members of the Hindu community, were armed to protect their villages from targeted attacks by terrorists.
However, the program was discontinued in the early 2000s due to allegations of misconduct. Now, with the resurgence of terrorist activities in recent years, the government has revived the VDGs, equipping them with state-of-the-art weapons to effectively counter the evolving security landscape.
A Multifaceted Approach to Counter Terrorism
In addition to bolstering the VDGs, the government is adopting a comprehensive strategy to tackle the multifaceted threat of terrorism. This includes recalibrating the tactics of defense forces and law enforcement agencies to respond more effectively to terrorist challenges.
Furthermore, a concerted effort is underway to dismantle the nexus between terrorists and drug dealers. Union Minister Singh emphasized the importance of “breaking the nexus” and called for collective action from all segments of society to combat illegal activities such as drug smuggling, illegal mining, and bovine smuggling.
Key Takeaways:
| Key Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Jammu’s Village Defence Guards (VDGs) are receiving advanced weaponry to combat rising terrorism. | The move aims to empower VDGs in safeguarding their communities and effectively countering terrorist threats. |
| The VDGs were revived in 2022 after a hiatus due to the resurgence of terrorist activities in the region. | The program was initially launched in 1995 to protect the Hindu community from targeted attacks by terrorists. |
| The government is adopting a multi-pronged approach to counter terrorism, including enhanced security measures and a crackdown on illegal activities. | This approach involves recalibrating security tactics, dismantling the terrorist-drug dealer nexus, and combating illegal activities like drug smuggling and mining. |
Export to Sheets
Summary:
The Indian government’s decision to equip Village Defence Guards (VDGs) with sophisticated weapons underscores its commitment to tackling the escalating threat of terrorism in the Jammu region. This strategic move, coupled with a multifaceted approach encompassing enhanced security measures and a crackdown on illegal activities, aims to create a more secure and resilient environment for the local communities. The revitalization of VDGs and the comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy reflect the government’s determination to safeguard the region from the scourge of terrorism.
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
