During the 62nd State-level Raising Day event, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that women Home Guards will receive 180 days of maternity leave, whereas significant increase from their previous allowance of Rs 60 to Rs 500. The move is part of a broader initiative to modernize the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and enhance disaster management capabilities. The government plans to fill 700 vacant posts and establish drone stations at the district headquarters to enhance disaster management capabilities.
Himachal CM pledges to modernize SDRF with advanced equipment and funds. Currently, SDRF has drones with a 5 kg lift capacity but plans to receive higher payload capacities. Funds will be allocated for constructing headquarters in Palampur, Kangra Unit Campus, and communication enhancement.
The Home Guards Raising Day event witnessed a splendid parade led by Parade Commander Vinay Kumar, which featured 17 contingents, including women's contingents led by Platoon Commander Lata Rahi. Disaster management techniques were showcased, with a Battle March Past by Home Guard Jawans and a musical performance by the Home Guard band. CM Sukhvinder praised the Home Guards, Fire Department personnel, and SDRF for their efforts during last year's disaster.
Himachal government is planning to train 1% of its population as Civil Defence volunteers over five years to improve disaster preparedness. The Home Guards have conducted 31,000 rescue and relief operations in the last decade, saving 3,600 lives and protecting properties over Rs 10,000 crore.
