Odisha’s Fire Service took a significant leap forward as 911 newly trained firemen joined the force during the 61st Passing Out Parade at the Baramunda Fire Training Centre, Bhubaneswar.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, addressing the event, praised the Odisha Fire Service as one of India’s top three, calling it the “best in the business” for its exemplary disaster management and life-saving efforts.
Highlighting the department’s achievements, the Chief Minister revealed that over the past year, the Odisha Fire Service, operating through 346 fire stations, responded to nearly 50,000 emergency calls, saving 7,599 human lives and rescuing 17,000 animals. He announced that 911 vacant posts have been filled, with the remaining 300 to be filled by December 2025, ensuring a robust workforce.
To bolster training, the state government is investing ₹10 crore to establish a world-class simulator for firefighters to prepare for complex emergencies. Additionally, a ₹12 crore national-level Water Rescue and Lifesaving Training Centre and a ₹10 crore Scuba Diving Training Centre will soon be operational at Ramchandi, Konark, to train police, fire service, and home guard personnel. These initiatives aim to make Odisha’s Fire Service a global leader in disaster response.
The Chief Minister emphasised the critical role of firefighters as “first responders,” urging them to maintain peak physical fitness and adopt modern techniques. He also called for widespread water safety awareness, particularly among students, and equipping fire vehicles with first-aid kits and modern stretchers to save lives during the critical “golden hour.” Fire safety training will be expanded to institutions like schools, colleges, and commercial establishments, with plans to send firefighters for national and international training.
“Fire, water, storms, or rain – nothing can defeat you. Be invincible and ensure a safe Odisha,” the Chief Minister told the trainees, launching a theme song dedicated to firefighters. The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, and other dignitaries, including senior officials and families of the trainees.
Dr. Sudhanshu Sarangi, Director General of Fire Service, Home Guards, and Civil Defence, welcomed the attendees, while Deputy Inspector General Umashankar Dash administered the oath to the new recruits. The ceremony underscored Odisha’s commitment to building a world-class fire service to safeguard its citizens.
