Rs. 725.62 Cr Funding Approved for Fire Services Modernization in Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal

The projects aim to bolster the state’s fire services capabilities, thereby enhancing disaster management and response systems.

A High-Level Committee (HLC), chaired by Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, has approved funding for three major fire services modernization projects in the states of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal, totalling Rs. 725.62 crore. The projects aim to bolster the state’s fire services capabilities, thereby enhancing disaster management and response systems.

The approved funds are as follows: Rs. 147.76 crore for Chhattisgarh, Rs. 201.10 crore for Odisha, and Rs. 376.76 crore for West Bengal. The HLC, which includes the Finance Minister, Agriculture Minister, and Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, is tasked with overseeing significant national initiatives aimed at strengthening the disaster management framework in India.

This allocation is part of the broader national initiative to fulfil the vision of a disaster-resilient India, as outlined by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), under the guidance of Shri Amit Shah, has been actively working to enhance the country’s disaster risk reduction and response mechanisms. The fire services modernization projects are integral to strengthening India’s disaster management systems, ensuring that fire services are equipped to handle emergencies effectively, saving lives and minimizing damage during disasters.

Expanding Disaster Management Support

As part of the ongoing effort, the central government has already allocated a significant amount under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). A total of Rs. 5000 crore has been earmarked for the “Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services” in various states, with proposals from 15 states already approved, amounting to Rs. 2542.12 crore.

The government’s proactive approach includes a comprehensive strategy for disaster prevention and management, which includes strengthening fire services and other emergency response units. This is in line with PM Modi’s vision of creating a more resilient disaster management framework at the national level.

Financial Support for States

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and the supervision of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the central government has released over Rs. 21,026 crore this year to various states for disaster management and mitigation. This includes:

Rs. 14,878.40 crore from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to 26 states.

Rs. 4,637.66 crore from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to 15 states.

Rs. 1,385.45 crore from the State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF) to 11 states.

Rs. 124.93 crore from the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF) to three states.

This funding is a part of the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening disaster management infrastructure across the country, ensuring states have the resources they need to respond effectively to crises.

The funding approval for the modernization of fire services in Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal underscores the government's emphasis on improving emergency response mechanisms across India. With the strategic implementation of these projects, India aims to be better prepared for handling disasters, minimizing loss of life and property, and enhancing the effectiveness of its disaster management systems.