Civil Defence Wardens and Volunteers Training Held in East Dimapur
DIMAPUR, Jan 28: Additional Deputy Commissioner, Dimapur, Zakabo V. Rotokha on Tuesday emphasised the importance of civil defence preparedness, community participation and coordinated response during disasters and emergencies, while addressing the third phase of training for Civil Defence Wardens and Volunteers at the Office of the East Dimapur Town Council.
The seven-day training programme, which commenced on January 28 and will conclude on February 4, 2026, is being organised by the Home Guards, Civil Defence and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Nagaland.
Rotokha appreciated the organising team and lauded the community for selecting capable and committed individuals for the training. Expressing satisfaction over the participation of women, he noted that disasters can strike at any time and stressed the need for constant alertness and preparedness.
Highlighting that East Dimapur is facing one of the worst floods in recent years due to extreme weather conditions, he said the trained wardens would play a crucial role, as they would be imparted training in different specialised fields. He urged the trainees to treat the programme as a service to the community and encouraged them to remain sincere, attentive and committed.
In his opening remarks, M. Yingnyei Konyak, District Commandant, Home Guards, Civil Defence and SDRF, Dimapur, highlighted the role of Civil Defence as a people-centric, non-privileged organisation focused on strengthening community preparedness and resilience. He said Civil Defence is not limited to emergency response alone but is about readiness, responsibility and collective action during crises.
He added that trained volunteers serve as first responders, offering timely help and hope when disasters strike. Emphasising the significance of the seven-day training programme, he said participants would be equipped with essential knowledge, practical skills and confidence to respond effectively when every second counts.
Encouraging the volunteers to actively participate and make the best use of the training, he said the skills gained would benefit not only the individuals but also their families and the wider community. He also expressed gratitude to the EDTC authorities for providing the venue.
The opening programme was chaired by S. Viboto H. Sumi, Sub-Inspector. Wardens and volunteers from EDTC Wards 1 to 11 and Samaguri Village are participating in the training.
The programme aims to equip over 80 wardens and volunteers with essential skills and practical knowledge to respond effectively to emergencies, natural disasters and other crisis situations. (I. Tiakumla Ao, IA Dimapur)
