Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal to Recruit Women in Fire Services: CM Sukhu Unveils Major Safety and Empowerment Reforms
Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announces the induction of women into Fire Services, major upgrades to disaster-response units, new fire stations, modern equipment and strengthened Home Guards under the Vyavastha Parivartan initiative.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced that women will soon be inducted into the state’s Fire Services, with amendments to the recruitment rules already underway. The announcement came during the 63rd Raising Day celebrations of the Himachal Pradesh Home Guards and Civil Defence at Sarogheen, where the Chief Minister emphasised that women’s empowerment remains a central pillar of the government’s Vyavastha Parivartan initiative.
Sukhu commended the Home Guards, Civil Defence, Fire Services and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) for their crucial role in ensuring public safety and contributing to the state’s development. He confirmed that recruitment for Home Guards will be launched shortly.
Over the past year, these departments have carried out 708 search and rescue operations, saving 448 lives, safeguarding property worth ₹2,000 crore, and restoring 1,035 water sources and bodies.
To further strengthen emergency and disaster-response capacity, the government has approved four new fire stations, 27 new fire tenders, and 150 new posts. A total of ₹55 crore has been earmarked for Fire Services modernisation. The SDRF has been equipped with ₹6 crore worth of advanced gear, including drones for aerial surveys and search operations.
Sukhu also highlighted enhanced maternity leave benefits for women serving in the Home Guards. He launched the ‘Miracle of Mind’ app, designed to counter drug abuse through awareness and behavioural interventions.
During the ceremony, personnel were honoured for outstanding service, and a ‘Safe Himachal’ demonstration showcased fire-fighting and rescue drills. Additional Director General Satwant Atwal Trivedi outlined the department’s key initiatives, including 11,000 mock drills and 3,000 awareness camps, which have trained two lakh citizens in disaster preparedness.
