Modernization of Fire Services | 04 Aug 2023

Source: PIB

Why in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India has launched a “Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States” under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for strengthening fire services in the States.

What is the Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States?

• About:
  • The Scheme finds its origin from the recommendation of the Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV-FC) which allows an allocation of 12.5% of each of the NDRF and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for the Funding Window of Preparedness and Capacity Building.
• Objective:
  • It aims to expand and modernize Fire Services in the States with a view that activities for strengthening of fire services at the State-level through preparedness and capacity-building components of the NDRF will be ensured.
• Measures under the Scheme:
  • Setting up of new fire stations
  • Strengthening of State Training Centres and capacity building
  • Provisions for modern fire-fighting equipment
  • Strengthening of State Headquarters and Urban Fire Stations
  • Technological upgradation and installation and augmentation of online systems.
• Fund Allocation:
  • Fund allocation under the scheme is on a cost sharing basis of 75:25 with the States, except for North Eastern Hill States which is in the ratio of 90:10.
  • While the Centre will provide Rs. 5000 crore to the States for identified activities, the States’ contribution will be of Rs. 1387.99 Crore.
    • An amount of Rs. 500 crore, out of the total central outlay of Rs. 5000 crore will be available for incentivizing the States for adoption of legal and infrastructure-based reforms.