Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi on Saturday (December 6) praised the dedication, discipline and sacrifice of Home Guard personnel while addressing a grand review parade organised on the occasion of the 63rd Raising Day of the Uttar Pradesh Home Guards in Lucknow.
Participating in the ceremonial parade, the Chief Minister saluted the contribution of Home Guard soldiers in safeguarding society and said they are not merely volunteers of a force but represent the trust of society and the strength of the state government.
“Not Just Volunteers, But Identity of Service”
Addressing officers and jawans, CM Yogi said the Home Guards embody discipline, loyalty and service, which are essential to maintain peace and security in society. He stressed that the Foundation Day of the Home Guards is not just an annual event, but a reminder of their dedication and sense of duty.
“Home Guards are not limited to being a supporting force for the police. They have become an integral pillar of law and order in Uttar Pradesh,” he said.
The Chief Minister congratulated all Home Guard personnel and officers on completing 63 years of service and extended his best wishes for their future responsibilities.
A Strong Shield for UP Police Since 1963
CM Yogi recalled that the Uttar Pradesh Home Guards were established on December 6, 1963, and since then have acted like an “unbreakable security shield” for the UP Police. He said the organisation has consistently strengthened the policing system of the state during challenging times.
Referring to their expanding role, he noted that Home Guards now actively contribute to law and order, traffic management, Dial-112 services, election duties, jail security, disaster response, examinations, and major public events across Uttar Pradesh and other states as well.
Recognition and Awards for Meritorious Service
The Chief Minister expressed pride that Home Guard personnel, who were earlier neglected, are now receiving national recognition.
“In 2024, three Home Guard soldiers received the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service and 11 were honoured for Meritorious Service. Three more soldiers have been awarded in 2025,” CM Yogi said.
He added that 38 commendation discs were also awarded by the Government of India, highlighting a change in the approach towards recognising their contribution.
Key Role in Maha Kumbh and Major Events
CM Yogi highlighted the crucial role played by Home Guards in successfully managing large-scale events, especially the Maha Kumbh. He said more than 14,000 Home Guard personnel were deployed during previous Kumbh events, where their services were widely appreciated.
He also mentioned their active presence during state festivals, International Yoga Day, Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Tiranga Yatra, and various environmental and water conservation campaigns.
Disaster Management and COVID-19 Service
Stressing their role in disaster response, CM Yogi said over 4,000 Home Guard personnel have been trained as Disaster Mitras in collaboration with the State Disaster Management Department.
Recalling the COVID-19 pandemic, he said Home Guard jawans showed exceptional courage by escorting stranded migrant workers safely back to Uttar Pradesh from other states. “They ensured safe transport at a time when even stepping out meant risking one’s life,” he said.
Welfare Measures and Future Recruitment
CM Yogi also outlined several welfare initiatives for Home Guards, including increased daily and training allowances, construction of departmental offices and residential buildings, and accidental insurance cover of Rs 35–40 lakh.
He directed officials to submit a proposal for providing cashless healthcare facilities on the lines of Ayushman Bharat.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening the force, he said recruitment for over 2.19 lakh police personnel has been completed, while the process to recruit 45,000 Home Guards is currently underway.
