PRESS RELEASE
NDRF CELEBRATES ITS 19TH RAISING DAY
Today, 19th Raising Day of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was celebrated enthusiastically by NDRF rescuers and their families across all the Units of NDRF. The raising day function at capital city was celebrated at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Shri Nityanand Rai, Hon’ble Minister of State for Home Affairs, Govt. of India graced the occasion as Chief Guest. NDRF, as a specialized task force, was raised on 19 Jan’ 2006 as the country's national rescue response force. In the journey of 18 years the force has gone through the number of changes in respect of its response methodology, availability of resources and skill development. On the occasion, all the rescuers reiterated their commitment to the nation and its motto "आपदा सेवा सदैव सर्वत्र".
Welcoming to all the attendees, Director General, NDRF, Shri Atul Karwal, gave an account of important rescue & relief operations conducted by the Force in last one year like OP-DOST conducted in Turkiye, Balasore Train accident, Ludhiana and Vizag Gas Leakage, Cyclone Biparjoy and recently Silkyara Tunnel operation in Uttarakhand etc. Also, he emphasised on vital role of First responders and volunteers during any disasters. He also mentioned that to implement the directions of Hon’ble Home Minister for training 37 Lacs volunteers, NDRF is in final stage of preparation of E-content which will facilitate online training of government employees and volunteers and provision of certification is also part of this. It will be released shortly.
He stated that, in the year 2023, NDRF conducted various operations, wherein it rescued more than 6,500 precious lives and assisted in evacuating approx. 51,000 citizens to safer places. The DG NDRF also highlighted NDRF’s efforts in making India a disaster ready and resilient nation.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Nityanand Rai, Hon’ble Minister of State for Home Affairs appreciated the commitment shown by the force in the disaster response. He applauded NDRF for doing a commendable job in saving lives by demonstrating highest levels of professionalism, determination and hard work during the recent operations in the country.
Hon’ble Chief Guest also appraised the various welfare measures that have been implemented in the forces by the Government of India. He mentioned about the contribution and sacrifices of personnel during various disasters. He further emphasized that the Government of India would extend full support in providing the best technological equipment and infrastructure to NDRF in order to meet the operational challenges.
On this occasion, Hon’ble chief guest also unveiled the NDRF Training Manual & Regime and bestowed Distinguished Service Medals to NDRF personnel for their invaluable services. Besides, he presented the trophies to the winners of Best Inter Battalion Sports & professional competitions.
Addressing to the gathering, Shri Kamal Kishore, Member Secretary, NDMA, applauded NDRF’s efforts in disaster response and disaster risk reduction. Shri Kishore said that NDRF personnel are setting an example through their hard work, sincerity and dedication to the nation. He emphasized on the role of NDRF in making the stakeholders more efficient and professional to deal in disaster-like situations and NDMA will provide all necessary support to make India disaster resilient. The dias was also shared by the AS (DM) Shri Sanjeev Jindal.
The Programme was witnessed by senior dignitaries from NDMA, NIDM, Chiefs of CAPFs, volunteers from NSS, NCC, NYKS and other representatives from various organisations and media personnel.
Issued By - PR, Cell, NDRF HQ, New Delhi
