Kashmir,January 14,2026-Hundreds of women enrolled as Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in the hilly districts of Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban have emerged as a dependable force in the fight against terrorism, particularly in the remote Chenab region of Jammu and Kashmir. Since the early 1990s, these women have played a crucial role in safeguarding their villages in the prolonged absence of male family members.
According to officials, the unique socio-economic conditions of the region have necessitated the active participation of women in village security. During harsh winter months, a large number of male residents migrate to states such as Uttarakhand, Delhi and Mumbai in search of livelihood opportunities, leaving behind villages largely inhabited by women, children and the elderly. This seasonal migration often makes these areas vulnerable to the activities of anti-national and terrorist elements.
Superintendent of Police Bhaderwah, Vinod Sharma, highlighted the importance of the initiative, particularly in Doda district.
“In the hilly Chenab region, especially Doda, male members of families migrate outside the state during winters. Several villages are left without able-bodied men, barring a few elderly persons, which increases the risk of terrorist activities,” Sharma said.
To address this security gap, the Jammu and Kashmir Police launched a focused initiative to train women as Village Defence Guards. These female VDG members are provided with training in basic weapon handling, tactical response, surveillance, and village defense strategies.
“To secure these villages from terrorist activities, we have trained women as VDG members. They are equally concerned about the security and sovereignty of the country as their male counterparts,” Sharma added. “We teach them tactics and strategies to counter terrorists, and they have proven their mettle. The results so far have been very encouraging.”
Officials say the presence of trained female VDGs has not only strengthened local security but also boosted community confidence and women empowerment in remote and sensitive areas. Their contribution is now being seen as a vital component of the counter-insurgency framework in the Chenab valley.
The success of female Village Defence Guards underscores the growing role of women in maintaining internal security, particularly in regions affected by militancy and challenging terrain.
