In a significant move to strengthen security and disaster management infrastructure ahead of the grand Simhastha Kumbh in 2028, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav unveiled a comprehensive plan on Saturday. The announcement, made in Bhopal, focuses on bolstering the Home Guard force, enhancing welfare measures, and creating specialized training facilities.
Major Boost for Home Guard and Security Infrastructure
The cornerstone of the announcement is the massive recruitment drive for the Home Guard. CM Yadav declared that 5,000 new personnel will be recruited to augment the force's strength, ensuring robust security arrangements for the upcoming Simhastha. Furthermore, in a move aimed at supporting the families of personnel, the compassionate assistance provided will see an increase of Rs 360.
To specifically safeguard key religious and tourist sites, the government has approved the creation of 488 new posts dedicated to security at Mahakal Lok and the Jyotirlinga precincts in Ujjain. The plan also includes deploying extra personnel at other major temples and sensitive locations across the state to ensure a safe environment for pilgrims and residents alike.
Honouring the "Trident" of Disaster Response
Chief Minister Yadav praised the integrated efforts of the Home Guard, Civil Defence, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), referring to them as a formidable "trident" that has elevated the state's disaster management capabilities. He highlighted their heroic work, noting that the force was instrumental in saving 5,075 lives last year. During recent flood situations, they acted as "guardian angels," rescuing hundreds of people from peril.
To formally recognise such extraordinary courage, CM Yadav introduced the CM's Indomitable Bravery Award. Under this initiative, 10 rescue teams that excel in protecting life and property under extreme conditions will be honoured with Rs 51,000 each every year. The first teams to be felicitated hailed from Indore, Shivpuri, Guna, Raisen, Mandla, Narsinghpur, Rewa, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, and Ujjain.
Long-Term Housing and Specialised Training Initiatives
Addressing the long-standing need for permanent accommodation, the government plans to develop housing for Home Guard personnel through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models and redevelopment schemes. This move is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for the force members.
On the training front, the state is developing the Ralamandal area in Indore into a specialised disaster management training centre. In a focused effort towards social inclusion and skill development, a dedicated training company will be established specifically for youth belonging to the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) – the Baiga, Bharia, and Sahariya communities. This initiative aims to equip them with professional skills and create employment opportunities in the security and disaster management sectors.
The announcements mark a holistic approach by the Madhya Pradesh government, combining immediate recruitment and security enhancements with long-term welfare and capacity-building projects, all set against the backdrop of preparing for the mammoth Simhastha congregation in 2028.
