The Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, has recently initiated a program titled “Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States”. The aim of this scheme is to fortify the fire services across various states. Supported by the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), this scheme is anticipated to bring about significant improvements in the area of disaster management.
Understanding the Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States
The inception of this scheme can be traced back to the recommendations made by the Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV-FC). As per these recommendations, 12.5% of each of the NDRF and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) should be allocated towards Preparedness and Capacity Building.
The overarching objective of this scheme is to modernize and broaden the scope of fire services in the states. It is believed that this will ensure stronger fire services at the state-level courtesy of the preparedness and capacity-building components of the NDRF.
Measures under the Scheme
Various steps are proposed under this scheme to strengthen the fire services. These measures include:
1. Establishment of new fire stations
2. Fortification of State Training Centres and capacity building
3. Provision for modern fire-fighting equipment
4. Strengthening State Headquarters and Urban Fire Stations
5. Technological upgradation and augmentation of online systems.
Fund Allocation in the Scheme
Fund allocation under this scheme will be on a cost-sharing basis of 75:25 with the states, excluding North Eastern Hill States where it will be in the ratio of 90:10. The Centre will provide Rs. 5000 crore to the states for identified activities while the states’ contribution will total Rs. 1387.99 Crore. Out of the overall central outlay of Rs. 5000 crore, a sum of Rs. 500 crore will be used to incentivize the states for the adoption of legal and infrastructure-based reforms.
Government Initiatives for Disaster Risk Reduction
Several initiatives have been undertaken by the government to reduce disaster risk. These include:
1. National Disaster Management Plan
2. Aapda Mitra Scheme
3. The Common Alerting Protocol based Integrated Alert System (Sachet)
4. School Safety Programme (SSP) of NDRF
5. National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP)
6. Initiation of NGO-Coordination Centres at States/UTs and District levels
7. Implementation of the NDRF Mock Exercises scheme on community disaster awareness
8. Creation of NDMA Guidelines for Management of Disaster Risks
9. Implementation of the National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP).
The “Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States” along with the aforementioned initiatives are anticipated to significantly contribute toward better management of disasters in India and safeguard lives and property from the forces of nature.
