Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha announces a major expansion of Civil Defence volunteers, targeting training for 1% of the state’s population and 3,000 additional volunteers by 2026 to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience across all districts.
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Friday announced an ambitious plan to transform the state into a model of disaster preparedness by expanding the Civil Defence volunteer base to cover 1% of the state’s total population. He made the announcement while addressing the 63rd All India Civil Defence and Home Guards Day programme held at the Manoranjan Debbarma Smriti Stadium in AD Nagar, Agartala.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister highlighted the crucial role played by Civil Defence, Home Guards, Apda Mitra, and other volunteers in disaster response and humanitarian assistance. He emphasized that their contribution not only protects lives and property but also reinforces a culture of resilience and community service across Tripura.
Dr. Saha noted a significant rise in the number of volunteers participating in drills and parades this year compared to the previous year. “We thank them for this spirited participation,” he said. “This day is a symbol of the selfless work and sacrifice of Civil Defence and Home Guard volunteers. Their bright presence beside the helpless and distressed creates hope and stands as a powerful example of service.”
Historical Development of Civil Defence in Tripura
The Chief Minister recalled the evolution of Civil Defence in India and Tripura. While the Civil Defence Act was enacted nationally in 1968, the system was formally recognized in Tripura in 1971. Initially controlled by the District Magistrate of West Tripura, the administration was transferred to the State’s Home Department in 2019 and later shifted to the Revenue Department in 2020.
Following this framework revision, Civil Defence activities in Tripura were expanded statewide in July 2021, enabling coordinated groundwork across all districts. Currently, the state has eight districts equipped with active Civil Defence units, with the ADMs and district Collectors serving as Civil Defence Controllers.
Dr. Saha further informed that the Director of the Department of Relief, Rehabilitation and Disaster Management is now designated as the Director of Civil Defence for the state. At present, Tripura has nearly 5,000 trained Civil Defence volunteers, with regular training underway at the Central Training Institute and district-level centres.
Massive Training Expansion Target by 2026
Under the new objective set by the state government, Civil Defence volunteers will be trained to equal 1% of Tripura’s total population, marking a major expansion plan for the coming years. Reinforcing this target, the Chief Minister announced that the Government of India has also approved a special project to strengthen the volunteer network.
“Under this project, about 3,000 Civil Defence volunteers will receive advanced training by March 31, 2026,” he said. This initiative aims to upskill volunteers in rescue operations, disaster mitigation, and community outreach, ensuring broader and more efficient disaster response capabilities across the state.
Tripura also has around 2,500 trained Apada Mitra volunteers, who work in close coordination with Civil Defence and Home Guards units. Their activities include control room operations, rescue and relief efforts during natural disasters, awareness campaigns, and various administrative responsibilities.
“The state is receiving financial assistance from the Ministry of Home Affairs to enhance the skills of these volunteers,” Dr. Saha added. “Civil Defence and Apada Mitra volunteers are playing a vital role in making Tripura a disaster-resilient state.”
Officials Attend Event
The programme was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Chief Secretary JK Sinha, Director General of Police Anurag, and senior officers from various departments. The event featured marches, demonstrations, and tributes to volunteers who have contributed significantly to disaster management and community safety.
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With the government’s new targets and the introduction of advanced training modules, Tripura aims to build a robust volunteer force capable of rapid and efficient response to crises, setting an example for other northeastern states.
