On the Raising Day of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed deep appreciation for the men and women of the force, lauding their professionalism and unwavering resolve during times of crisis. He said the NDRF works tirelessly to protect lives, provide relief, and restore hope in the aftermath of disasters.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “On the Raising Day of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), we extend our deepest appreciation to the men and women whose professionalism and resolve stand tall in moments of crisis. Always at the forefront when a calamity strikes, NDRF personnel work tirelessly to protect lives, provide relief and restore hope under the most challenging circumstances.”
He further said the skills, discipline, and sense of duty displayed by NDRF personnel exemplify the highest standards of public service. “Over the years, the NDRF has emerged as a benchmark in disaster preparedness and response, earning respect internationally,” he added.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his greetings to the force. In a post on X, he said, “Warm greetings to the personnel of NDRF on Raising Day. Through its significant role in realising the Modi government’s resolve to build a disaster-resilient India, the NDRF has become a pillar of trust the nation relies on during calamities. Salute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the safety of others.”
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also extended greetings on the occasion. In a post on X, he said, “On NDRF Raising Day, we salute the courage, professionalism, and dedication of the National Disaster Response Force. Ever ready in times of crisis, NDRF’s swift response and selfless service have saved countless lives across the nation.”
Every year on January 19, India observes NDRF Raising Day, marking the anniversary of the formation of the National Disaster Response Force.
Established in 2006 under the Disaster Management Act, the NDRF has remained at the forefront of disaster management in the country, carrying out thousands of rescue, relief, and evacuation operations across India.
The force currently comprises 16 battalions of specialised disaster response personnel, strategically deployed at 68 locations across the country. These locations are selected based on vulnerability assessments and threat perceptions, enabling swift and effective response during emergencies.
The origins of the NDRF trace back to a series of devastating natural disasters between 1990 and 2004. Recognising the need for a dedicated and professional disaster response mechanism, the government enacted the Disaster Management Act on December 26, 2005. The NDRF was subsequently constituted on January 19, 2006.
The NDRF’s motto, ‘Aapada Seva Sadaiv Sarvatra’, reflects its commitment to providing sustained disaster response services under all circumstances. Over the years, the force has lived up to this motto through courage, discipline, and dedication.
Raising Day serves to honour the bravery and selfless service of NDRF personnel who risk their lives to save others during emergencies. It also helps raise public awareness about the critical role played by the force in disaster management.
Over time, the NDRF has strengthened its training, expertise, and resources to handle a wide range of natural and man-made disasters. The force is also equipped to respond to chemical, biological, and radiological emergencies.
So far, the NDRF has conducted over 12,000 rescue and relief operations and has saved more than 1.58 lakh lives, reaffirming its role as a dependable guardian in times of crisis.
-IANS
