Shillong, Oct 29: The state government has raised the out-of-pocket allowance for Village Defence Parties (VDPs) from Rs 300 to Rs 3,000, effecting a 10 fold hike.
The hike will come to effect with the state cabinet giving its approval to Meghalaya Village Defence Organization Rule, 2025 on Wednesday.
The new rule also outlines the roles and responsibilities of VDPs at various levels, from state to district, said cabinet minister Wailadmiki Shylla while briefing on the crucial cabinet meeting chaired by chief minister Conrad K Sangma.
The increased out-of-pocket allowance is expected to encourage VDPs to be more active, particularly in addressing challenges related to crime, drugs, and border security, he said.
Expecting more response from VDPs towards their responsibilities, the minister said, “We want the VDPs to be active especially as you know we are facing the challenges of crimes, drugs and even in border areas. We hope with this new rule, I think we will be able to encourage villages to form the village defence parties (VDPs),” Shylla stated.
Shylla, meanwhile, hinted that the government plans to modernise VDPs by providing them with uniforms, walkie-talkies, and proper identification.
While he refrained from specifying the provision of weapons, he emphasised that the government is working towards empowering VDPs to effectively maintain law and order in their areas.
