Associated News Bureau

CAASPI Delegation Calls on LG Manoj Sinha, Proposes Social Defence Volunteer Groups

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 13: A delegation of the Centre for Activities for Advanced, Strong and Progressive India (CAASPI), Jammu and Kashmir, on Friday called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and submitted a proposal for the establishment of Social Defence Volunteer Groups to strengthen disaster response and civil defence mechanisms across the Union Territory. The delegation comprised several prominent personalities, including Justice Tashi Rabstan, former Judge of the J&K and Ladakh High Court; Kuldeep Khoda; B.R. Sharma; Dr. S.P. Vaid; Dr. Ashok Bhan; Maj. Gen. S.K. Sharma (Retd.); K.B. Jandial; and Advocate Rameshwar Singh Jamwal. During the meeting, the delegation proposed that the volunteer groups be constituted at the district level, particularly in border areas, to supplement the existing manpower and operational capabilities of Home Guards and Civil Defence personnel. It was suggested that these groups could function as Joint Quick Reaction Teams, working in coordination with Home Guards and Civil Defence units during natural disasters, emergencies and other situations requiring trained manpower and an organised response. The delegation also drew attention to important issues concerning the extension of facilities under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), particularly for the welfare and healthcare needs of pensioners. The delegation highlighted the need for appropriate measures to strengthen community-level preparedness, emergency response and welfare facilities in Jammu and Kashmir. ANB