Shillong, Oct 29: The state government has approved the Meghalaya Village Defence Organization Rule, 2025, and increased the out-of-pocket allowance for Village Defence Parties (VDPs) from Rs 300 to Rs 3000.
The decision was taken by the state Cabinet chaired by chief minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday.
Addressing media persons after the meeting, Cabinet Minister and MDA spokesperson Wailadmiki Shylla said that the new rule outlines the roles and responsibilities of VDPs at various levels, from state to district.
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.
“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.
The minister hinted that the government plans to modernize VDPs by providing them with uniforms, walkie-talkies, and proper identification.
While he refrained from specifying the provision of weapons, he emphasized that the government is working towards empowering VDPs to effectively maintain law and order in their areas.
