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. 25/10/2024 3:24 PM
Introduction
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to inaugurate the 14th All India Civil Defence and Home Guards Conference at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This notable event, marking the first of its kind in 19 years, will bring together civil defence and home guard officials from across the nation. The conference is part of a broader agenda that includes Amit Shah's participation in the 60th Foundation Day of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) in Anand, where he will launch three significant projects. He will also attend a legislative drafting training workshop at the Gujarat Assembly.
The 14th All India Civil Defence and Home Guards Conference holds immense significance, as it is expected to revitalize the critical role of civil defence and home guard services in maintaining public safety and emergency response. The last such conference took place nearly two decades ago, underscoring the importance of this event in shaping the future direction of these services. Amit Shah's presence and the participation of over 60 senior officials, along with nearly 1,200 members from different states and union territories, highlights the strategic priority being placed on these services in India.
The conference will focus on a range of critical issues aimed at improving the operational and legal framework for civil defence and home guard services. Key points of discussion include:
The Draft Civil Defence Bill: Updating the legislative framework governing civil defence to align with current challenges.
The Model Home Guard Bill: Proposing a standardized legal approach to home guard operations across states.
Policies for Civil Defence and Home Guard Forces: Reviewing and recommending updates to operational policies for these forces.
These discussions will help modernize the governance of civil defence and home guard services, ensuring they remain effective and responsive in times of crisis.
One of the crucial themes of the conference will be the integration of modern technology into civil defence and home guard operations. The event will explore the potential for digital tools to enhance the efficiency of these services, particularly in areas such as training, communication, and coordination during emergencies. The application of cutting-edge technology is seen as a key driver for improving the overall readiness and response capabilities of civil defence forces in the face of growing challenges like natural disasters and security threats.
With over 4.5 lakh Home Guards and 6 lakh Civil Defence Guards currently serving across India, the sheer size of these forces demonstrates the importance of civil safety and emergency preparedness in the country. These personnel play an indispensable role in disaster management, emergency relief, and maintaining public order. Their continued training, modernisation, and operational support are vital for ensuring that India's civil defence and home guard forces are always prepared to respond to crises.
This year’s conference marks a significant revival in national-level discussions about civil defence and home guard services. The 19-year gap since the last conference indicates a need to refocus attention on the strategic importance of these services. By bringing together key stakeholders from various states and union territories, this conference is expected to generate new ideas and provide a platform for collaboration, aimed at improving the operational efficiency of civil defence and home guard forces.
Amit Shah’s participation in a legislative drafting workshop, held in conjunction with the conference, further emphasizes the connection between civil governance and safety. By engaging legislators in discussions about civil defence policies and legal frameworks, the event is set to encourage more informed decision-making at the policy level. This approach could lead to better resource allocation, enhanced training programs, and improved infrastructure for these essential services.
Civil defence and home guards are fundamental to India’s national safety framework. Their responsibilities extend from assisting during natural disasters to providing critical support during emergencies and helping maintain law and order in times of unrest. The importance of these forces lies in their ability to respond swiftly and efficiently to crises, thereby safeguarding the public and supporting government efforts in disaster management and public safety.
The 14th All India Civil Defence and Home Guards Conference is a crucial moment for the future of India’s civil defence and home guard services. The focus on modernisation, legal reform, and technology integration is expected to significantly enhance the effectiveness of these services. By fostering collaboration among officials from across the country, the event aims to create a roadmap for improving India’s emergency response capabilities and strengthening public safety.
This landmark conference is set to have a lasting impact on civil defence and home guard operations in India, contributing to a safer, more resilient nation.
