In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision announced on Independence Day 2026, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in coordination with the Indian Army, has launched a first-of-its-kind joint training initiative to build a vibrant and modern Civil Defence Network across the country.
Under the pilot phase, 600 Civil Defence Master Trainers—50 each from 12 selected States and Union Territories—will undergo a three-day specialised training program conducted at Indian Army establishments by mid-November 2026.
The participating regions include Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Delhi, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
The curriculum focuses on three core pillars: Threat Awareness (modern hybrid warfare, drone threats, air raids), Protection and Emergency Response (CBRN defence, critical infrastructure protection, search and rescue), and Communication and Coordination (cyber hygiene, incident command, civil-military synergy).
A central feature of the program is its Master Trainer Model. Upon completing their specialised instruction, each Master Trainer will cascade training to 100 Civil Defence Volunteers within their respective jurisdiction.
This multiplier effect will quickly equip an estimated 60,000 volunteers with advanced disaster and security management skills. Based on the pilot phase’s success, the MHA plans to expand the civil-military training network nationwide.
