The Gilgit−Baltistan Scouts (reporting name: GB Scouts) are part of the Paramilitary forces of Pakistan, under the direct control of the Ministry of the Interior of the Pakistan Government. The Scouts are an internal and border security force with the prime objective of protecting the China–Pakistan border and supporting Civil Administration in ensuring the maintenance of law and order in Gilgit-Baltistan and anywhere else in Pakistan. The force was formerly known as the Northern Areas Scouts but was renamed to the Gilgit−Baltistan Scouts in 2011 due to the imposition of the "Empowerment and Self Governance Order" in 2009.