SRINAGAR: Rebutting a report published in a local Urdu daily regarding the step motherly treatment with its employees, the Home Guards, Civil Defence and SDRF, J&K, has issued a clarification regarding the voluntary nature of Home Guards.

According to the rebuttal issued here today in this regard, the Jammu and Kashmir Home Guards is a voluntary force constituted under the Jammu and Kashmir Home Guards Act, Svt. 2006, and governed by the Jammu and Kashmir Home Guards Rules, 1962. As per these regulations, individuals enroll as volunteers to serve the community during emergencies and assist in maintaining public order. The voluntary nature of this service implies that members are not regular government employees but are civilians who offer their services during exigencies.

Given the voluntary status of the Home Guards, members receive an honorarium or duty allowance for the days they are actively engaged. This is a fixed per-day payment and is not equivalent to a regular monthly salary. It's important to note that this honorarium is not intended to serve as a primary source of income but as a token of appreciation for the voluntary services rendered.

The Home Guards play a crucial role in supporting the regular police force and aiding the community during emergencies. Their contribution is invaluable and deeply appreciated. However, its essential to recognise the foundational principles of the Home Guards as a voluntary force with a structure and remuneration system distinct from regular government services. The department said that, in view of above explained facts, the concerns raised in the article stem from a misunderstanding of this unique framework.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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