Ymbon says collaboration will strengthen capacity building
SHILLONG, Dec 6: Civil Defence and Home Guards Minister, Comingone Ymbon, has called on the Civil Defence and Home Guards to collaborate with local institutions such as Dorbar Shnongs and Nokmas to strengthen capacity building.
Speaking during the 62nd Raising Day celebration of the Civil Defence and Home Guards at the CTI Parade Ground on Friday, the minister commended the organisation for its exemplary service to society.
Addressing the gathering after the parade and medal investiture ceremony, Ymbon highlighted the significant role the Civil Defence and Home Guards have played in providing assistance during emergencies and in the face of both natural and man-made calamities.
He lauded the department for training 9,614 individuals, including local residents, students, NGOs and government officials, in disaster management, search and rescue operations, and medical first aid in urban and rural areas.
He added that during 2023-2024, training was provided to 160 Home Guards volunteers and 410 Civil Defence volunteers, while 1,977 trained Home Guards volunteers are currently employed by various government departments, PSUs and private agencies, thereby earning an income while providing security services.
Ymbon also informed the audience about the department’s proposals for funding: Rs 4.15 crore for constructing a flood simulation pool for SDRF water emergency training and Rs 30.10 lakh for setting up an 11 kV line and a 200 kVA substation to supply power to the Civil Defence and Home Guards office in Jowai.
Expressing gratitude to the government, Ymbon announced the approval for recruiting 448 vacant posts, including Sub-Inspectors (4), Guardsmen (284), Non-Combatant Employees (140), and Drivers (17). He noted that the recruitment process, being conducted transparently, is currently under way.
Earlier in the event, Ymbon awarded the President’s Home Guards and Civil Defence Medal for Distinguished Service to MK Sangma, Joint Director of Civil Defence, Meghalaya, and the Home Guards and Civil Defence Medal for Meritorious Service to Inspector Bokstar Mynsong of the Border Wing Home Guards Battalion.
He also presented the DG Fire Services, Home Guards and Civil Defence, MHA New Delhi Disc and commendation certificates to five officers and nine personnel of the department.
On the occasion, MK Singh, Commandant General of Civil Defence and Home Guards, awarded Director General of Civil Defence and Home Guards Meghalaya Commendation Certificates to two officers and 13 personnel.
Another highlight of the celebrations was a flood rescue demonstration by the SDRF.