Indian Army’s Sabre Brigade has conducted an intensive training programme for Village Defence Guards (VDGs) at Purmandal in Jammu. This is a timely exercise aimed at enhancing their operational readiness and coordination with security forces. The exercise focused on improving the capabilities of these armed civilian groups, particularly in vulnerable rural and border areas, enabling them to act effectively as a first line of defence.
Village Defence Guards were constituted in March 2022 following approval from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, replacing the earlier Village Defence Committees. Comprising mainly ex-servicemen and trained civilians identified at the panchayat level, VDGs are equipped with Self-Loading Rifles and trained by Army and paramilitary instructors. They support counter-terrorism operations, protect villages and public infrastructure, and assist in intelligence gathering, acting as force multipliers for police and armed forces in remote regions.
What is in the training?
During the Purmandal exercise, VDG members received hands-on instruction in weapon handling, firing practices and basic battle drills. Army officials highlighted that such training enhances preparedness and operational effectiveness while strengthening coordination between the armed forces and local defence groups, thereby improving resilience at the grassroots level.
The Sabre Brigade has a longstanding record of civil-military engagement in Jammu and Kashmir. Beyond operational training, it has organised initiatives including computer awareness programmes for children, medical camps, and community outreach during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These efforts aim to bridge gaps in education and healthcare while fostering trust and cooperation with local communities.
The Indian Army’s broader role in the region spans counter-insurgency, intelligence-led operations and maintaining public order. Units like the Rashtriya Rifles have operated in Jammu and Kashmir since the early 1990s under the Armed Forces Special Powers framework, conducting operations to neutralise militant threats while ensuring civilian protection.
By training Village Defence Guards and involving local communities in security efforts, the Army seeks to enhance situational awareness, provide rapid response in isolated areas, and empower residents to safeguard their villages. Such integrated approaches are viewed as essential for sustaining long-term peace and stability in the region.
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