SWB proposal approved by J&K Govt
*Will protect power stations, bridges etc
Sanjeev Pargal
JAMMU, May 17: In a major decision amid ongoing Operation Sindoor by the Indian Armed Forces, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has given nod to a proposal for deployment of 4000 ex-servicemen to guard vital infrastructure across all 20 districts of the Union Territory including power stations, bridges, Government installations and other vulnerable points.
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A Defence spokesperson today confirmed that the proposal has been approved by the UT Government which was mooted by the Sainik Welfare Board of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Government move to protect civilian installations through ex-servicemen comes during ongoing Operation Sindoor in which Indian Armed Forces hit terrorist infrastructure, military installations and airbases deep inside Pakistan and PoJK. Pakistan fired drones on military and civilian areas, most of which were intercepted and downed by the Indian Air Defence system.
“In such a scenario, the protection of civilian infrastructure which is crucial for emergency services has become necessary and the Government has decided to utilize services of 4000 ex-servicemen for the purpose,’’ the officials said.
As per the approved plan, 4000 ex-servicemen volunteers have been identified for protection of civilian infrastructure. They include 435 individuals who possess licensed personal weapons, significantly enhancing the capacity to respond effectively to localized security situations.
“The ex-servicemen will be employed for protection of critical infrastructure in all 20 districts of J&K including power stations, bridges, Government installations and other vulnerable points,’’ the officials said.
Terming it a unique collaboration between veterans and civil authorities, the official said role of the ex-servicemen is “non-combatant”, focusing on static guard duties, presence-based deterrence, and local coordination.
Describing the decision as a major step towards strengthening community-based security and harnessing the capabilities of former military personnel, the officials said the Sainik Welfare Board of Jammu and Kashmir had moved a proposal for mobilizing ex-servicemen to safeguard vital infrastructure across the Union Territory, which has now been formally approved by the Jammu and Kashmir Government.
This, the officials said, will set the stage for a unique collaboration between veterans and civil authorities.
“The initiative builds upon the previous success during the COVID pandemic, where 2,500 ex-servicemen volunteered to support the administration. The increase to 4,000 reflects both the growing spirit of service among veterans and the trust reposed in them by the Government and local populace,’’ the officials said..
As outlined in the proposal, they said, these volunteers will serve under the overall coordination of the respective District Sainik Welfare Officers. They will function in close coordination with the district administration and local police.
“Uniforms and basic equipment will be provided through the Sainik Welfare Board with administrative support from district authorities, while training and orientation programmes are being planned to ensure standardized conduct and efficiency,” the officials said.
This initiative not only utilizes the discipline, experience, and commitment of the ex-servicemen community but also represents a model of inclusive and participatory security. It further cements the Indian Army’s legacy of service beyond the battlefield, contributing meaningfully to civil society and local governance structures in Jammu and Kashmir, they said.
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