Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday attended the ceremonial parade organised on the Foundation Day of the Provincial Guard (PRD) at the Directorate of Youth Welfare and Provincial Guard grounds in Nanurkheda. The event brought together serving PRD jawans, senior officials and families, marking a day of recognition for one of the state’s most widely deployed auxiliary forces.
In his address, the Chief Minister lauded the contribution of PRD personnel in maintaining order and supporting essential public services across Uttarakhand. He said the force had become a crucial pillar in activities ranging from traffic regulation and crowd management to disaster response and departmental duties.
“PRD jawans have consistently demonstrated discipline, patience and unwavering dedication. Their service during major events, pilgrimages and emergency situations ensures that the state administration functions smoothly,” Dhami said.
Training Institute and Service Benefits Announced
A major highlight of the Foundation Day event was the announcement of a dedicated training institute for PRD personnel. The proposed institute is expected to enhance the capacity of the force by offering modern, structured training modules covering disaster management, public order duties and rapid-response protocols.
Dhami noted that PRD personnel often work in high-pressure environments and require regular skill upgrades. “Our government is committed to strengthening the PRD system. The establishment of a specialised training institute will help in improving efficiency and preparing jawans for the increasingly diverse nature of their responsibilities,” he said.
In a significant welfare measure, the government approved a provision that classifies hospitalisation due to on-duty injuries as “on duty,” ensuring that personnel continue to receive their honorarium during the treatment period for up to six months.
Financial and Insurance-Linked Reforms
The Chief Minister detailed several financial improvements made for PRD jawans over the years. The daily allowance, which stood at Rs 65 at the time of Uttarakhand’s formation, has now been increased to Rs 650. The state has also introduced expanded compensation slabs:
- Assistance for deaths during communal disturbances has been raised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2 lakh.
- Compensation for deaths during sensitive duty has increased from Rs 75,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh.
- Compensation for deaths during normal duty has risen from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh.
PRD personnel who serve continuously for ten years will also be eligible for a lump-sum service benefit of Rs 18 lakh.
Dhami said these reforms were aimed at offering dignity, security and long-term stability to the families of PRD jawans who serve in difficult circumstances. “Our jawans stand firm in every situation, from disaster-hit terrains to high-risk security zones. Their welfare is our priority,” he said.
Support for Families and Dependents
During the ceremony, the Chief Minister distributed financial assistance to the families of deceased PRD volunteers and handed over scholarship cheques to children of serving personnel. The state, he said, is committed to supporting the educational and financial future of the dependents of PRD jawans.
Since the government expanded the dependent registration system in 2023, a large number of families have received support. Dhami said that of the 190 dependents registered so far, 133 have been provided employment. Additionally, 149 dependents are set to receive semi-military training this month to improve their employability.
Infrastructure Expansion
The Chief Minister also announced the development of a sports ground in Gram Asthal, Raipur, to promote physical training and recreational activities for PRD personnel. He added that the government will continue to invest in infrastructure that directly benefits operational readiness and staff welfare.
Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya, who was also present at the event, praised the PRD for its steady service during elections, festivals, disaster situations and routine administrative assignments. She noted that the current government has introduced several landmark decisions to strengthen the force.
A Growing and Essential Force
The PRD, which now has more than 7,500 active personnel across the state, plays a crucial role in daily administrative operations. Their responsibilities include managing crowds during the Char Dham Yatra, supporting police units, assisting during natural calamities and ensuring civic discipline in urban and rural areas.
The Foundation Day parade concluded with ceremonial honours, demonstrations by PRD contingents and community outreach activities. Dhami reiterated that the state government would continue to make structural improvements to ensure that PRD personnel receive better facilities, training and recognition.
