Chandigarh, 30 September 2025: A valedictory function marking the passing out of Civil Defence Volunteers was held today at Tagore Theatre, Sector-18. Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, was the Chief Guest.

Present on the occasion were Sh. Mandip Singh Brar, IAS, Chief Secretary, UT Chandigarh; Sh. Sagar Preet Hooda, DGP, Chandigarh; Sh. Nishant Kumar Yadav, Deputy Commissioner; Sh. Amandeep Singh Bhatti, PCS, Additional Deputy Commissioner; Ms. Isha Kamboj, HCS, SDM (South), along with other senior officials of the Chandigarh Administration.

The Chief Guest planted the “Sindoor Paudha” to symbolise the spirit of Operation Sindoor, a living reminder of preparedness, resilience and the collective will to safeguard society in times of crisis.

Sh. Kataria, accompanied by other dignitaries, toured the exhibition organised by Civil Defence, Chandigarh Traffic Police, the Indian Army and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). A documentary on Civil Defence Volunteers was screened and an official handbook for CDVs was released. The programme also featured cultural performances by students.

Certificates and accolades were presented to the volunteers in recognition of their successful training, dedication and spirit of service. Outstanding Civil Defence Volunteers were specially felicitated.

The Administrator congratulated the volunteers and recalled the memorable response during Operation Sindoor, when the Administration had called on volunteers at Tagore Theatre, over 7,000 youth responded within a few hours to receive initial training in first aid, evacuation drills and crowd management. He added that in times of disaster, emergency or crisis, the volunteers’ preparedness, courage and dedication ensure the safety and well-being of all sections of society. He also noted that the volunteers performed their first duty during the recent heavy rains in Chandigarh.

The Chief Guest urged the Civil Defence Volunteers to actively support the “Nasha Mukt Chandigarh” and “Nasha Mukt Punjab” initiatives. He lauded Chandigarh as one of the most well-planned and beautiful cities and observed that the city has set important benchmarks in urban development - achievements that serve as an example for other States and UTs.

During the recent heavy rains, the Sukhna Lake floodgates were opened and Civil Defence Volunteers were deployed at affected sites; their timely assistance helped prevent any untoward incidents.

The Deputy Commissioner thanked the Administrator for his continuous guidance and support for the CDV initiative. He said that the volunteers have been comprehensively trained with the support of the Indian Army and the NDRF to tackle disaster situations and that periodic refresher training will be provided so that volunteers remain ready to serve during both emergencies and peacetime.

A special enrolment drive for new Civil Defence Volunteers will also be held, offering citizens an opportunity to join and contribute to community safety and disaster preparedness.