PM Announces Modern Civil Defence Volunteer Force

On 15 August 2026, the Prime Minister announced a “massive, modern” Civil Defence volunteer force during India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort in Delhi. The proposed force is intended for civilian protection during modern security challenges and emergency situations.

Civil Defence in India

Civil Defence in India is a statutory system for protecting civilians, property, and essential services during war, air raids, disasters, and other emergencies. The framework is governed by the Civil Defence Act and Rules of 1968, which provide the legal basis for organisation, training, and deployment.

The Civil Defence structure works with state administrations, district authorities, and local volunteers. It includes measures such as warning systems, evacuation support, rescue assistance, first aid, fire-fighting support, and protection of critical infrastructure.

Volunteer Force and Training

The announced volunteer force will be trained in modern systems and familiarised with advanced emergency protocols. Civil Defence volunteers in India are generally drawn from local communities and are used for support functions during crises.

Home Guards are a related auxiliary force in India and function under state control. They assist police, disaster response teams, and civil administration during emergencies and public order situations.

Independence Day Address and Related Terms

The address delivered from the Red Fort marked the Prime Minister’s 13th consecutive Independence Day speech. The speech also referred to “Sapta Dhara”, a seven-stream development vision mentioned in the address.

Former IPS officer Kiran Bedi has stated that stronger state-level Civil Defence and Home Guards systems can function alongside local communities in emergency response. The same address also mentioned free online coaching for competitive examinations and a nationwide sports talent hunt.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Civil Defence Act and Rules of 1968 form the legal framework for Civil Defence in India.
• The Red Fort in Delhi is the venue for the Prime Minister’s Independence Day address on 15 August.
• Home Guards are auxiliary forces that assist civil administration and police in several states.
• Civil Defence volunteers are used for rescue, evacuation, first aid, and warning duties during emergencies.