Tripura's Volunteer Drive: Preparing for Tomorrow's Challenges

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha announced a new initiative to train civil defence volunteers, aiming to make them 1% of the state's population. The program recognizes the contributions of volunteers and will grow under the Revenue Department. By 2026, 3,000 volunteers will receive enhanced training.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has set an ambitious target to make 1% of the state's population participate as civil defence volunteers in the upcoming years. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the state's readiness for unforeseen events and disasters.

During a recent program, CM Saha noted the significant increase in participation in civil defence parades, recognizing the indispensable role these volunteers play. The Civil Defence Act, enacted in India in 1968 and adopted by Tripura in 1971, has evolved significantly. Originally managed by the district magistrate of West Tripura, civil defence activities were eventually brought under the Revenue Department in 2020, extending their reach across the entire state by July 2021.

The initiative is backed by a central project that will see approximately 3,000 volunteers trained by March 31, 2026. Currently, Tripura boasts around 5,000 trained civil defence volunteers and 2,500 'Apada Mitra' volunteers, who are equipped to assist during disasters. These efforts are spearheaded by the state's Department of Relief and Rehabilitation and Disaster Management.

(With inputs from agencies.)