Overview

• The Jammu and Kashmir government has formally approved the deployment of 4,000 ex-servicemen volunteers to safeguard critical infrastructure in the Union Territory.
• Volunteers will focus on non-combatant roles such as static guard duties, presence-based deterrence, and coordination with local authorities.
• Among the volunteers, 435 possess licensed personal weapons, enhancing their capacity to respond effectively to localized security threats.
• The initiative builds on the success of a similar program during the COVID-19 pandemic, which involved 2,500 ex-servicemen.
• Uniforms, equipment, and training will be provided through the Sainik Welfare Board to ensure standardized and efficient operations.