Morung Express News
March 1
Kiphire: The Village Guard Commandant Tuensang, W. Krome has termed the performance of the VGs personnel as ‘quite good, reliable and sincere,’ adding that the demand of VGs has been increased, especially Rod Opening Party (ROP), reception to VIPs in their respective area. They are using weapons like, 303 Rifles, Musket Rifles and modified 7.62 Rifles, he told The Morung Express on the sidelines of the 49th Raising Day of VGs at Kiphire Local Ground.
Additional Chief Secretary and Commissioner, T.N. Mannen, who is also the ex-officio Commandant-General of the Village Guards, stated that the Golden Jubilee of the VGs would take place next year in Kohima to show the strength and the effective service of VGs personnel in the state.
Viewing the excellent performance of VGs, Mannen said that the government was seriously considering the infrastructure development and other welfare activities.
He also called upon the VGs to rededicate themselves and continue to serve the people and at the same time play an important role in securing justice and peaceful atmosphere in the state. It may be recalled that VGs originally comprising village volunteers were organised in 1957 at Pangsha village of Noklak area in present Tuensang district with the initiative of Maj. R. Khathing, IFSA, the then political office of Tuensang Frontier Division under NEFA administration.
The aim was to protect the villagers against the insurgent attack and harassment to villagers. Their primary role assigned now, is for the security and protection of the villages and their properties, to assist General administration in maintenance of law and order and prevention of crimes.
They are also assigned to protective routine duties like road opening, passing information, to act as guide, interpreters, to assist security forces in aid of civil power as and when required and to provide escort to civil administrative officers.
VGs have, over the years, made tremendous contributions. Their invaluable services, bravery and sacrifices have been amply recognized by various awards at national and State Level President’s medal, Governor’s commendation certificate, Police Gold Medals. Etc. Some VG personnel even received high military awards like Sourya Chakra for their gallantry services.
In addition, with a view to improve skill upgradation in the traditional craft making, revival of traditional arts and craft, its preservation programme involving the village Guards have been launched making them productive during their free time. Parliamentary Secretary Kipili Sangtam, DUDA’s advisor Chemlon Phom, MLA Toruchu also spoke on the occasion of the 49th Raising Day of VGs at Kiphire Local Ground.
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