Why in news?
The Ministry of Home Affairs is considering raising new Border Wing Home Guards units along the India–China border, mirroring their deployment along the India–Pakistan border.
What are BWHGs?
Border Wing Home Guards are volunteer auxiliary forces drawn from the local civilian population of border areas. They are mobilised during emergencies to support the Army and border guarding forces.
Origin and administration
- The Home Guards Act of 1962 provides for their establishment.
- The force is administered by the Ministry of Home Affairs in coordination with State governments.
- Seven states—Meghalaya, Tripura, Assam, West Bengal, Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat—are authorised to raise BWHGs. As of 2025, units are active only in Rajasthan.
Objectives and functions
- Support to security forces: Relaying information, aiding patrols and maintaining law and order during conflicts or natural disasters.
- Community engagement: Building trust between villagers and security agencies, and mobilising local participation in surveillance and emergency response.
- Disaster assistance: Assisting with logistics and relief during floods, landslides or other crises.
Key features and significance
- Voluntary enlistment: Members typically serve three to four years and receive daily pay similar to a constable’s salary, with 25 per cent of costs borne by the Centre.
- Force multiplier: The BWHGs augment regular forces along the Line of Actual Control and can provide valuable ground intelligence.
- Cost‑effective: Utilising local manpower reduces infrastructure costs and fosters community ownership of border security.