It acts as a reserve force for the regular Army in times of national emergency or war.

The force has two main tasks: operating air defence batteries and providing localised infantry companies.

[3] The Force is further regulated by the National Guards Act, 1973, which became law on 12 August 1973.

[2] However, the pay and conditions compare unfavourably with those of the regular Army and the Mujahid Force including how pensions are awarded.

[5] The training for members of the force includes various local centres such as in Muzaffarabad, Azad Kashmir,[6] and courses at state-run institutions such as the Government Post Graduate College in Sheikhupura.