Armed Police Force, Nepal: Strengthening Security, Building Trust

Armed Police Force, Nepal has served the nation with the stamp of excellence through its comprehensive mandate under the BIRD concept as Border Security, Internal Security, Revenue Support and Disaster Management aimed at safeguarding the life, liberty and property of the people. APF, Nepal has consistently stood as a vital pillar of national stability, earning its reputation as one of the country's most trusted law enforcement agencies. Beyond its glorious history in armed conflict, APF, Nepal has evolved into a professional force, distinguished by collaborative citizen science, developing knowledge society and a deep bond of trust with the Nepali people. Its resilience and unwavering commitment have been evident in the face of grave challenges as it continues to ensure the safety and security of citizens during the tour of duty, reflecting an enduring spirit of service to the nation.

Inspector General Raju Aryal emphasized that, APF personnel, driven by boundless determination, remain fearless like living pillars along the border, neither frozen by cold nor scorched by heat, and continue to serve the country and its people, smiling like a mountain in any difficult situation. There is no fear in their duty, only deep respect for those who remain continuously engaged in border security, maintaining its indomitable courage in extreme temperatures ranging from minus 26 degrees Celsius to 50 degrees Celsius.

One of the key responsibilities of APF, Nepal is to serve as a dedicated border guarding force in the country' borders. APF, Nepal has strategically deployed well-trained personnel along national borders to oversee comprehensive border related responsibilities, including the protection and maintenance of border pillars and boundary markers, regulation of cross-border movement, prevention of cross border crime, and combating illicit activities such as drug trafficking and human trafficking. The organization has adopted a multifaceted method that includes strengthening intelligence collection and analysis, as well as deploying advanced surveillance and monitoring mechanism.  

Borderland community people constitute strategically important populations for the state security, directly linked to national security, territorial integrity and sovereignty. APF, Nepal, therefore deeply places strong emphasis on sustained engagement with borderland people through the implementation of targeted community engagement and outreach programs. The organization seeks to local grievances, enhance trust in state and strengthen cordial relationship between borderland people and the state. In this context, the "Seema Basi Sanga Sasatra Prahari" program is being implemented as an ongoing community engagement initiative at the border area with the objective of fostering a harmonious and trust based relationship with bordering people. To date, approximately 5,000 programs have been conducted under this initiative including social programs, health camps, vocational training, and interactions with border ward chairperson, plantation, and public awareness campaigns. Reflecting its nationwide operational reach and unwavering commitment, APF personnel secure the nation's borders from the summit of Mount Everest to the lowest border land of Kechankewal, Jhapa. 

APF, Nepal has established the committee of "Seema Sahajikaran Samiti" under the leadership of the Ward Chairman with the objective of strengthening border security while facilitating and supporting local communities program. Border Area Development Program have been launched in border areas to address immediate community needs such as the construction of residential houses, installation of tube wells, drinking water taps and reserve tanks, public toilets, public bus waiting shelters and maintenance of schools. APF, Nepal has been carrying out the maintenance and repainting of border pillars along the Nepal-India border. Border patrols are regularly conducted round the clock to ensure continuous vigilance and security. Additionally, in close coordination between APF, Nepal and Sashastra Seema Bal, bilateral meetings are organized at all levels from senior leadership to unit level to strengthen cooperation and enhance border security. To strengthen border security, APF, Nepal is adopting modern and innovative approaches, including the digital border concept, the establishment of a Border Research and Resource Center, intelligence-led border security frameworks, and the deployment of artificial intelligence–based technologies in border areas.

APF, Nepal has been committed to response and rescue operations, earning public trust through timely, effective and result-oriented interventions. The organization has been conducting disaster risk reduction and preparedness training programs for the people as well as family members thereby strengthening community resilience. APF deep divers play a significant role in wirde range of rescue operations. In these critical moments, they often  draw strength from their organization and families.  Up on the successful completion of their missions and safe return, they express gratitude to God acknowledging the faith and support them in the line of duty. 

At the officer level, the APF Command and Staff College has strengthened institutional capacity by introducing its mandated task related courses, including the first-ever 'Post Graduate Diploma in Security and Disaster Management Studies' thereby reinforcing professional expertise and leadership in disaster response. APF, Nepal prioritizes producing community disaster volunteer and informants of its long term disaster management plan, strengthening early warning, mobilization and response capabilities during the rescue operations.

APF, Nepal continues to implement a wide range of welfare programs to support the health, education, economic well-being and social security of serving, retired and martyrs as well as their family members. In recognition of excellence, APF, Nepal maintains a tradition of selecting the most outstanding performer in disaster response and other operational duties each year and conferring the title of “Barsha Jawan” on the occasion of Armed Police Day. The selected personnel will be provided opportunities for deployment in UN Mission, along with educational support in the form of an annual scholarship for one of their children. 

Nepal is a land-linked and peace loving country. APF, Nepal has proudly contributed to global peace, stability and security through its participation in UN peace operations. The practical experiences and insights of peacekeepers properly integrated in enhancing governmental functions related to security and diplomacy. APF, Nepal has also initiated the observance of "Professional Values Day" to reinforce its core values such as courage, excellence, integrity, respect and dedication as an integral part of a soldier's identity from the very first day in uniform, strengthening cohesion and unity within the organization. The organization is taking a zero-tolerance policy on unethical behaviors. Adopting the policy of zero tolerance on human rights violations, sexual and gender-based violence and corruption, the organization is moving ahead with carrying out its core values. 

The rapid technological advancements have significantly transformed the national security environment, shaping emerging and non-traditional threats. Modern technologies have the potential not only to challenge traditional security paradigms but also to create entirely new and complex threats. In this evolving context, organizational culture, institutional determination, and professional dedication play a decisive role in addressing emerging security challenges. Accordingly, APF, Nepal remains focused on technological modernization with new combat tactics and comprehensive institutional development.

Armed Police Force, Nepal celebrates its Silver Jubilee; it stands not only as a steadfast shield against threats but also as a bridge connecting the Force with the people. From the snow-capped borders to the flood-prone plains, APF’s journey is written in the dedication of its personnel and the smiles of the citizens they protect and rescue. Through its multifaceted mandate, including border security, internal security, revenue support, disaster response, community engagement, and international peacekeeping, the organization has earned the trust and respect of the nation. Twenty-five years in, the message remains clear: APF Nepal is, and will continue to be, the People’s Force committed to ensuring a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nepal.

(Author Karmacharya is DSP of Armed Police Force, Nepal)