The Civil Defence Warden and Volunteers Training, organised by the District Commandant, Home Guards, Civil Defence and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Zunheboto, commenced on November 18 at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Zunheboto. The seven-day training programme will conclude on November 24.
Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto, Dharam Raj, IAS in his address stressed the need for preparedness, especially in view of global conflicts and increasing uncertainties. He noted that several mock drills have been conducted earlier, but more comprehensive preparation is required to address challenges such as lack of shelter and coordinated response mechanisms.
“Disasters and wars are very different,” he stated. “Disasters may occur once, but wars can prolong for months or even years. Therefore, we need better training and preparedness that can be sustained over time.” He encouraged the trainees to make the most of the programme, adding, “Whatever you learn here will help save lives and serve the community. The more we sweat during training, the less we bleed during real emergencies.”
Delivering the welcome address, Company Commander L. Vikheho Swu highlighted the importance of the training, stating that during any disaster, the public is often the first to respond. He emphasized that such training is essential to equip participants with first-aid knowledge and skills required to handle emergency situations.
Participants, he added, will serve as the first medical responders during disasters. Swu further explained that disasters are broadly categorised into two types man-made and natural. The week-long training will consist of practical sessions, lectures, and presentations aimed at strengthening disaster response capabilities among wardens and volunteers.
The inaugural programme was chaired by SI, Holloto Awomi, while the invocation was pronounced by Honito Zhimo of the Home Guards. Volunteers coming from different parts of Zunheboto wards are currently undergoing the training.
Wokha:
EAC, Sangmou Khiamniungan with other officials and participants during the civil defence wardens’ and volunteers training held at GHSS Auditorium, Wokha.
A one-day training for the Civil Defence Wardens and Volunteers was conducted on November 18 at the Government Higher Secondary School Auditorium, Wokha. The programme was organised by the Home Guards, Civil Defence, and SDRF Wokha with the aim of strengthening community preparedness and response mechanisms in times of disaster.
Delivering the keynote address, EAC, Sangmou Khiamniungan underscored the importance of such training programmes in saving lives – not only of individuals but of entire communities. He stated that in an era of increasing natural and man-made disasters, every citizen must be equipped with the right knowledge, mindset, and practical skills to respond effectively.
Khiamniungan emphasised that Civil Defence volunteers are not just responders but pillars of community resilience, capable of mitigating risks through timely action and coordinated effort. He encouraged participants to take the training seriously and to serve as resource persons within their respective wards.
The opening remark was delivered by Company Commander of HG, CD and SDRF and Deputy Controller Civil Defence Wokha, Echung Konyak. He highlighted the core objective of the training – to build a culture of preparedness, ensure timely response, and protect lives and property during emergencies. Konyak stressed that awareness and readiness at the grassroots level are essential for reducing disaster impact and fostering a safer society.
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Ward Councillors were present at the programme, reflecting the importance of local governance in disaster readiness. Volunteers and residents from various wards actively participated in the training, which included practical demonstrations, awareness sessions, and interactive discussions on disaster risk reduction.
The event served as a timely reminder that preparedness is not a one-time effort but a continuous responsibility shared by all. The organisers expressed hope that such initiatives would be carried forward regularly to build more informed and resilient Wokha.
