Bihar’s Home Guard personnel are set to receive a major benefit from the state government. The state government is preparing to offer them an insurance plan similar to the one currently available to Bihar Police. This decision comes as a significant relief and assurance for the Home Guards who play a vital role in the state’s security. The initiative, under discussion by the Home Department and the Police Headquarters, is expected to be finalized soon. If implemented, it would provide crucial social security for the Home Guards and their families in case of unfortunate incidents during duty.
The Need for Economic Protection for Home Guards
Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister, Samrat Chowdhury, has made it clear that Home Guards work alongside the police to maintain law and order, manage disasters, assist in election duties, control crowds, and perform other risky tasks. Given their involvement in such important duties, it is essential that they receive financial protection in case of death, serious accidents, or permanent disability during their service. The state government is now taking steps to bring Home Guards under the insurance scheme to ensure that their families are financially secure if any untoward incident occurs.
Government’s Commitment to Security Forces’ Welfare
During an event at the Police Headquarters, Home Minister Samrat Chowdhury made the announcement regarding this initiative. At the same event, he handed over checks worth nearly ₹25 crore to the families of 36 police officers who had been martyred during their service. The government’s primary goal, as stated by Chowdhury, is to ensure that no security personnel’s family feels helpless in times of crisis. He emphasized that both the police and the Home Guards are the backbone of the state’s security system, and the government remains committed to their welfare.
Details of the Proposed Insurance Scheme
According to officials, the proposed scheme will provide Home Guards with an insurance cover similar to what the Bihar Police currently receive. This cover will provide financial assistance to the families of Home Guards in case of death, serious injury, or permanent disability while on duty. While the exact insurance amount and terms are yet to be finalized, there are indications that the cover will be at par with the police insurance, ensuring there is no discrimination between the two forces.
Home Guards’ Role in Bihar’s Security System
Bihar has a large number of Home Guard personnel who are integral to daily operations as well as special circumstances. They play a crucial role during elections by providing booth security, participating in flood relief operations, aiding in natural disaster management, and ensuring security during festivals and major events. Despite their significant contributions, Home Guards have not received the same social and economic security benefits as the police force. The government’s initiative is seen as a long-awaited step to address this gap and offer them the recognition and support they deserve.
Boosting Morale and Enhancing Service Quality
The government believes that this move will significantly boost the morale of Home Guard personnel. When soldiers are assured that the government stands by them and their families, they are more likely to perform their duties with greater dedication and confidence. The quality of law enforcement and disaster management directly depends on the morale of security forces. Knowing that their families will be financially supported if something happens to them gives Home Guards the confidence to work fearlessly.
Current Status of the Plan and Future Prospects
Currently, the Home Department and Police Headquarters are finalizing the details of the plan. This includes discussions with insurance companies, financial provisions, and the drafting of rules and regulations. Once all formalities are completed, it is expected that the official announcement of the scheme will be made soon, and the insurance coverage will be implemented.
A Significant Step Towards Security Forces’ Welfare
The proposal to extend insurance coverage to Home Guards, similar to that of the police, is seen as a significant and positive step in the welfare of security forces in Bihar. This initiative will not only give Home Guards a sense of respect and security but also provide stability and confidence to their families about the future. The scheme will ensure that they are financially protected in times of need, reinforcing the government’s commitment to the well-being of those who serve to protect the state.
this move by the Bihar government is a step towards providing equitable social security benefits to Home Guards. It will help strengthen the security framework of the state by ensuring that the personnel who risk their lives in challenging situations are supported by the government, not just in terms of their service but also in terms of the financial security of their families.
