Srinagar, May 17 -- In a significant move to bolster security of key installations across the Union Territory, the Jammu & Kashmir government has approved the deployment of Ex-Servicemen (ESM) volunteers for the protection of critical infrastructure.

According to the Sainik Welfare Board of J&K , which proposed the plan, 4,000 Ex-Servicemen have been identified for deployment, including 435 with licensed personal weapons. These veterans will be tasked with guarding power stations, bridges, government buildings, and other vulnerable assets across all 20 districts.

Officials told the initiative builds upon the success of the Covid-19 response, where over 2,500 ESM assisted local administration. The government has now expanded the strength...