In a significant step to bolster local disaster response capabilities, the Kanpur Nagar administration flagged off a batch of 32 volunteers for specialized training on Thursday. The initiative is part of the central government's Aapda Mitra scheme.
Flag-Off Ceremony at Collectorate
District Magistrate Jitendra Pratap Singh and Additional District Magistrate (Finance/Revenue) Vivek Chaturvedi formally sent off the group from the Election Office at the Collectorate. The volunteers are now headed to the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) headquarters in Lucknow for an intensive training program.
DM Jitendra Pratap Singh emphasized the critical role these individuals will play. He stated that after completing the Aapda Mitra training, the volunteers will be fully prepared to confront various disasters within the district. Their primary duty will be to act as skilled first responders during emergencies, providing immediate assistance before specialized teams arrive.
Comprehensive 12-Day Training Curriculum
The volunteers will undergo a rigorous 12-day training regimen at the SDRF facility. The curriculum, designed as per the guidelines of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), covers a wide spectrum of essential skills.
The training modules include:
- Disaster management fundamentals and pre-disaster preparedness
- Earthquake safety protocols and search & rescue operations
- Fire safety measures and flood response during the monsoon season
- Handling lightning-related incidents and administering Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
This holistic approach aims to create a pool of community-based volunteers who can mitigate damage and save lives in the crucial initial moments of a crisis.
Equipping the Mitras for Action
District Disaster Expert Jugbir Singh provided details about the support the volunteers will receive post-training. Upon successful completion of the course, each Aapda Mitra will be provided with a dedicated emergency kit.
This kit is designed for practical use during disasters and will contain vital tools such as:
- A comprehensive first aid kit
- Life jacket, safety helmet, and multi-purpose rope
- Torch, cutter, lighter, and a whistle
The Aapda Mitra project, funded through the disaster relief fund, is a central government scheme focused on reducing disaster impact through community participation and awareness. By training local volunteers, the administration aims to build a resilient community that can effectively support official disaster response efforts in Kanpur district.
