Bhopal, March 16:
A three-day Civil Defence Conclave 2026 began in Bhopal on Monday under the Madhya Pradesh Civil Defence training programme, aimed at strengthening the role of volunteers in disaster management and internal security.
The event was inaugurated by Pragya Richa Srivastava, Director General of Home Guards, Civil Defence and Disaster Management, Madhya Pradesh, at the Home Guard Lines on Jail Road. The conclave will run from March 16 to March 18, 2026, bringing together civil defence volunteers from across the state.
Training and demonstrations
The programme includes disaster management training sessions, rescue demonstrations, competitions and sports activities for volunteers. Participants also showcased live rescue operations and modern emergency response equipment, highlighting coordinated action during emergencies.
Addressing the gathering, Srivastava said civil defence volunteers are vital partners of the government and administration during disasters and internal security challenges, noting that their dedication and readiness act as a protective shield for society during crises.
Role of civil defence volunteers
Civil defence volunteers are enrolled under provisions of the Civil Defence Act 1968 and Civil Defence Regulations 1968. Recruitment gives priority to former servicemen, senior NCC cadets, NSS members and private security personnel.
All districts in the state have been declared Civil Defence towns, where district collectors serve as controllers responsible for coordinating civil defence activities.
Volunteers undergo seven-day training programmes covering areas such as:
Disaster management and search-and-rescue operations
Fire safety
Traffic and crowd management
First aid and relief distribution
Communication support and psychosocial assistance
Strengthening disaster preparedness
Officials said the conclave is an important initiative aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness, coordination and skills among volunteers, thereby strengthening the state’s disaster management capabilities while contributing to the vision of a self-reliant Madhya Pradesh.
