CM Sukhu Vows to Modernize Fire Services and Home Guards with New Technology and Reforms

In a decisive move to bolster disaster response capabilities across Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu pledged a comprehensive modernization of the state’s Fire Services and Home Guard departments. The announcement came during the valedictory ceremony of Fire Service Week, held at the State Fire Training Centre in Baldeyan, Shimla, where the Chief Minister lauded the dedication of fire personnel and unveiled plans aimed at enhancing the operational strength of emergency services.

The event, which marked the culmination of a week-long campaign held from April 14 to 20, 2025, was underscored by powerful demonstrations of rescue and fire-fighting operations—vivid reminders of the immense risks undertaken daily by fire service personnel. Chief Minister Sukhu flagged off 13 new fire-fighting vehicles on the occasion, signaling a significant step in improving the fleet and readiness of the department, particularly in light of the increasing climate-induced disasters faced by the state.

Reflecting on the spirit of sacrifice and bravery, the Chief Minister paid homage at the Shaheed Smarak and announced financial support of Rs. 5 lakh each for the families of Martyr Joginder Pal and Martyr Ghanshyam. These two fire personnel lost their lives heroically during a fire emergency in Nalagarh back in 2009. Sukhu reiterated the importance of acknowledging such sacrifices, describing the role of fire, police, and home guard forces not merely as administrative responsibilities, but as sacred duties to society.

As part of a broader plan to strengthen disaster readiness, Sukhu also declared that the recruitment of 700 new Home Guard personnel will soon begin, a move aimed at addressing manpower gaps in the civil defence infrastructure. He highlighted the valor displayed by the Fire Department, Home Guards, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) during the catastrophic 2023 monsoon season, which brought unprecedented devastation to Himachal’s hilly regions. According to him, these forces played a pivotal role in rescue and relief operations and earned the trust of citizens through their efficiency and commitment.

The Chief Minister emphasized that despite the state’s ongoing battle with natural disasters and economic hurdles, the government remains resolute in its pursuit of self-reliance. He asserted that his administration is implementing strategic policy reforms to uplift public welfare, modernize essential services, and revitalize governance.

Taking a dig at the previous BJP-led government, Sukhu accused them of financial mismanagement and corruption, contrasting it with his own government’s commitment to transparency and fiscal discipline. According to him, anti-corruption measures and systemic reforms initiated by the current administration have not only restored public trust but also generated an additional revenue of over Rs. 2200 crore, simply by plugging financial leakages.

He went on to elaborate on his government’s ambitious reforms in education and healthcare. A major change being considered is the introduction of CBSE curriculum in 100 selected government schools to elevate the standard of public education. In the healthcare sector, the focus is on strengthening infrastructure, expanding accessibility, and providing equitable medical services throughout Himachal, especially in remote districts.

The Fire Service Week concluded with a ceremonial parade led by officer Nitin Dhiman, during which the Chief Minister took the salute. Fire Services Director Satwant Atwal welcomed the dignitaries and briefed them on the department’s operations and future plans. The event also featured an exhibition showcasing advanced firefighting equipment and safety protocols.

Present at the ceremony were Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, Shimla Mayor Surender Chauhan, CM’s OSD Gopal Sharma, and several senior police officials, symbolizing a unified front for public safety and institutional reform.

As Himachal Pradesh navigates a landscape of environmental volatility and development challenges, the Chief Minister’s renewed focus on emergency preparedness, institutional accountability, and citizen-centric governance sets the tone for a future that is both resilient and responsive.

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