Army launches civil defence training programme across 12 states and territories

The Indian Army has announced a major civil defence training programme spanning 12 states and Union Territories, aimed at strengthening disaster management and emergency response capabilities across the country.

Under the initiative's first phase, 600 master trainers will be selected and equipped with specialized skills in emergency preparedness, disaster mitigation, and civil protection protocols. These trainers will subsequently lead instruction for approximately 60,000 civil defence volunteers across the participating regions.

The programme represents a concerted effort to enhance the operational readiness of civil defence personnel at the grassroots level. Volunteers will receive training in areas including rescue operations, medical assistance, fire management, and coordination during natural disasters and other emergencies.

The phased approach ensures systematic capacity-building while maintaining training quality and consistency across regions. Officials indicated that the cadre of trained volunteers would serve as a critical link between national disaster response mechanisms and local communities requiring immediate assistance.

This initiative underscores growing emphasis on civil-military coordination in India's broader disaster management framework, particularly following increased frequency of extreme weather events and other emergencies affecting populated areas.