Praising the contribution of Village Defence Guards (VDGs), Director General of Police, Nalin Prabhat has said that the Police force would not hesitate to induct them in regular force for exceptional contribution in counter-terrorism operations, demonstrable conspicuous gallantry, using the powers of the police establishment board. Mr Prabhat described VDG’s as the first tier of the security grid and appreciated their role in intelligence collection as well as their role during Operation Sindoor and floods. The Police Chief urged the VDGs to remain vigilant and actively cooperate with police and security forces in strengthening the security grid and maintaining brotherhood, peace and tranquillity. Interacting with over 110 VDGs in a forward village near the International Border in R S Pura sector, Mr Prabhat said the police would reward them for their “exceptional work and bravery”. The DGP said the primary objective of the interaction was to strengthen coordination, operational cooperation and training. The DGP listened to the concerns and issues of the VDGs and thanked them for their vital role in the overall security grid of J&K Police. The DGP was accompanied by senior BSF and police officers. The Police Chief sensitized about the constant adversarial tactics adopted by the neighbouring country to harm the security and harmony in India. He said the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the smooth functioning of the VDG’s have been notified in close coordination with the BSF and highlighted the need for their proper implementation on the ground to strengthen border security grid and thwart the evil design’s of enemy nations. He also urged on preventive strategies through training, coordination and community vigilance.