The Armed Police Force (APF) of Nepal has recently completed 23 years of service and entered its 24th year. Over its two-and-a-half-decade journey, the APF has played a pivotal role in Nepal's security landscape. Unlike the military and regular police, paramilitary forces like the APF operate under a distinct framework. The concept of such forces traces back to France, where the Gendarmerie Nationale was established in 1791 to maintain law and order in rural areas, bridging the gap between civilian police and the military. This model later became the foundation for paramilitary forces worldwide.
In Nepal, the APF was formed in 2001 during a national security crisis, and became an integral part of the country's security framework. Marking its 24th anniversary, the APF stands as a momentous force that has evolved to meet diverse challenges while contributing to peace, security, and development.
Among its various mandates, border security remains APF's primary responsibility. Border security is critical not only for safeguarding territorial sovereignty but also for preventing illegal activities like drug trafficking, human smuggling, and terrorism. Effective border management ensures the lawful flow of goods and people, supporting the nation’s economy and international relations. However, challenges such as vast and diverse terrains, rugged remote areas, and the increasing sophistication of threats make border security a complex task.
While technological advancements like drones and sensors offer solutions, they also present new challenges as individuals and groups devise ways to bypass them. Political pressures, such as migration issues and humanitarian concerns, further complicate border security, requiring a balanced approach. Additionally, global threats such as cybercrime and the impacts of climate change on migration patterns continuously redefine the challenges faced in securing borders. For these reasons, maintaining robust border security remains an evolving and demanding task for nations around the world.
During this 23-year journey, APF has experienced significant political and security chaos and changes in Nepal. APF had an opportunity to work during the insurgency period, the post-peace agreement phase, and afterward. Nevertheless, in the changing context of the global security landscape, Nepal’s border security and geopolitical and geostrategic location are complex and challenging.
Officials of Nepal, India agree to ensure effective border secu...
APF’s accomplishment
The Armed Police Force (APF) Nepal has made remarkable progress since its establishment. While the years following the peace process and the drafting of the constitution saw leadership challenges and a lack of focus on long-term organizational goals, recent years have brought a significant shift. The current leadership has realigned priorities, demonstrating renewed strength and commitment to the APF's mission. From its modest beginnings with personnel drawn from the Army and Nepal Police, the APF has grown into a formidable force of over 37,000. Over time, the paramilitary force has gained professionalism and built a strong reputation in border security. In 2023, the APF introduced a Postgraduate Diploma in Border Security and Disaster Management program. This program has become a cornerstone for specialization and helps mid-career and senior officers enhance their effectiveness and professionalism.
As a dedicated border force, the APF has accelerated the establishment of Border Outposts (BOPs) along Nepal's northern and southern borders. Initiatives like community engagement in border areas and scholarships for underprivileged children in APF Schools highlight its commitment to community welfare. To enhance security, the APF has deployed sniffer dogs, established help desks at key border points, and begun repairing and maintaining border pillars with the help of government-provided strip maps. Border facilitation committees led by residents have further encouraged community participation, reflecting the APF's emphasis on people-centric security measures.
The APF's contributions to disaster management have been equally noteworthy. Disaster Relief System (DRS) containers placed in 13 districts, with foreign aid, have been crucial for post-crisis operations, often serving as lifelines during emergencies. Training community volunteers to raise disaster awareness and preparedness further strengthens its efforts. The APF has also introduced a Post-Crash Response and Care Service training program at Kurintar, focusing on reducing fatalities along the accident-prone Prithvi Highway and the Trishuli River area.
Welfare initiatives for APF personnel have also seen significant improvements. The APF hospital has been upgraded to a 300-bed facility, now providing extended health services, including a 365-day OPD. These advancements underline the APF's focus on the well-being of its personnel and their families. Through strategic initiatives, innovative programs, and a renewed focus on community engagement, the APF has established itself as a cornerstone of Nepal's national security. Its resilience and professionalism ensure the nation's safety while serving its people in times of need.
Challenges
The greatest challenge faced by the Armed Police Force (APF) is the state’s inability to align its utilization with its organizational nature and mandate. The Ministry of Home Affairs has yet to define clear jurisdiction and provide necessary legal authority, leading to significant shortcomings. Over the past decade, the APF has often been misused for tasks like VIP security, diverting it from its intended responsibilities as a backup force for police during emergencies. Deploying the APF for roles unrelated to border security, counter-insurgency, and disaster response has further undermined its effectiveness.
Securing Nepal’s borders with China and India is becoming increasingly challenging. The northern Himalayan border faces rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and limited infrastructure. At the same time, rising connectivity with China has introduced security issues like gold smuggling and illegal trade in flora and fauna. The region remains vulnerable, with very few North Border Outposts (BOPs). Similarly, the flat terrain of the southern border with India allows unchecked movement, facilitating organized crime, cross-border smuggling, terrorism threats, and the entry of third-country refugees. Nepal must significantly increase the number and efficiency of its BOPs on both borders to address these risks.
A clear legal framework is urgently needed to enable the APF to operate effectively within 5 to 10 kilometers of the border. Modernizing the APF’s outdated weapons and deploying advanced digital technologies at border checkpoints are crucial to enhancing transparency, operational efficiency, and overall border security. Despite these challenges, the APF plays a vital role in curbing smuggling and contributing to the national treasury, although occasional corruption has occasionally impacted its reputation. Addressing these issues is essential for strengthening national security.
Looking Ahead
As the APF marks 24 years of service, it faces new challenges in an evolving security landscape. From counter-terrorism to cyber threats, the APF must continue to innovate and adapt. Establishing the Border Security Department and ongoing advocacy for additional resources and personnel reflect the force’s proactive approach to addressing these challenges.
This milestone anniversary is an opportunity to honor the sacrifices and achievements of the APF’s brave men and women. Their dedication to safeguarding Nepal’s sovereignty and fostering peace and stability inspires confidence in its future. The APF Nepal has come a long way since its inception, proving itself to be a guardian of the nation. On this special occasion, we celebrate its legacy, honor its heroes, and reaffirm our support for this vital institution. May the APF Nepal shine as a symbol of peace, security, and commitment for future generations.
