Doda: Jammu and Kashmir Police have commenced weapon training for female members of the Village Defence Group (VDG) in the Doda district in response to reports indicating the resurgence of armed insurgency, allegedly supported by Pakistan-backed militants, in the region.
The women VDG members, representing both Hindu and Muslim communities from various areas in the challenging mountain districts of Jammu division, are undergoing training in firearm usage and weapon maintenance,
With many male members occupied with work in the region’s villages, women find themselves alone and susceptible.
In March of the previous year, the Ministry of Home Affairs sanctioned the establishment of Village Defence Groups (VDGs) in the Union Territory.
These VDG members, now recognized as Village Defence Guards, receive government remuneration.
Abdul Qayoom, the Senior Superintendent of Police in Doda, informed The Tribune that there are 875 Village Defence Groups in the districts, with approximately 6000 members.
