Tripura Aims to Train 1% of Population as Civil Defence Volunteers

Tripura's Chief Minister Manik Saha has announced an ambitious plan to train one percent of the state's population as Civil Defence Volunteers to enhance disaster response capabilities. This initiative, part of a broader project by the Government of India, aims to train around 3,000 volunteers by March 2026. The Chief Minister highlighted the significant role of these volunteers in humanitarian efforts and disaster management during the 63rd All India Civil Defence and Home Guard Day celebrations. With ongoing training programs and financial support from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Tripura is working towards becoming a disaster-resilient state.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 7, 2025, 16:13 IST

Tripura's Initiative for Disaster Preparedness

Agartala, Dec 7: On Saturday, Chief Minister Manik Saha announced that Tripura is targeting to train one percent of its population as Civil Defence Volunteers (CDF) to enhance disaster response capabilities.

During the 63rd All India Civil Defence and Home Guard Day event held at the Manoranjan Debbarma Smriti Stadium in Arundhuti Naga, the Chief Minister emphasized the crucial role of Civil Defence and Home Guard volunteers in disaster management and humanitarian efforts. Currently, approximately 5,000 trained Civil Defence Volunteers are active in the state.

He mentioned that alongside the state’s initiative, the Government of India is launching a project aimed at improving the skills of Civil Defence volunteers, with plans to train around 3,000 volunteers by March 31, 2026.

Regular training sessions are being organized at the Central Training Institute and various district-level training centers. Saha noted a significant increase in the participation of Civil Defence Volunteers, Home Guards, Apda Mitra, and other volunteers in this year's parade compared to last year.

“Civil Defence and Home Guards Day is celebrated annually on December 6, honoring the dedication and sacrifices of volunteers in disaster situations and their commitment to humanity. Your presence brings hope to those in distress, exemplifying true service,” Saha remarked.

He highlighted that the Civil Defence Act was established in India in 1968, with Tripura recognizing Civil Defence in 1971. Initially managed by the District Magistrate of West Tripura, it was transferred to the Home Department in 2019 and later to the Revenue Department in 2020. Since July 2021, Civil Defence activities have expanded across all districts in Tripura.

Currently, there are eight districts with Civil Defence operations, and Additional District Magistrates and Collectors have been appointed as Civil Defence Controllers for their respective areas.

Furthermore, the Director of the Department of Relief and Rehabilitation and Disaster Management has been designated as the Director of Civil Defence in the state.

CM Saha, who oversees the Home portfolio, also mentioned that there are about 2,500 trained Apada Mitra volunteers in Tripura.

“Other volunteers, including the Home Guard, play an active role in disaster management. Civil Defence and Apada Mitra volunteers are regularly involved in control room operations, rescue and relief efforts during disasters, public awareness campaigns, skill development, and various administrative tasks. The state is currently receiving financial support from the Ministry of Home Affairs to enhance the skills of these volunteers. Their contributions are vital in making Tripura a disaster-resilient state,” the Chief Minister concluded.

Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha, Director General of Police Anurag, and other senior officials attended the event as distinguished guests.