Himachal Pradesh's SDRF Achieves Back-to-Back Victory at National Rescue Competition
In a significant achievement for disaster management capabilities, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) of Himachal Pradesh has secured the top position at the National Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR) Competition for the second year in a row. This remarkable feat underscores the state's growing expertise in emergency response operations.
Chief Minister Honors SDRF Team at Felicitation Ceremony
During a felicitation ceremony held at Oak Over on Sunday, the victorious SDRF team presented the prestigious trophy to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The chief minister expressed immense pride in the accomplishment, particularly highlighting the achievement of a relatively small state like Himachal Pradesh in a national-level event.
"It is a proud moment for a small state like Himachal Pradesh to top a national-level event," Sukhu stated, acknowledging the dedication and skill demonstrated by the SDRF personnel.
Record-Breaking Performance at Ghaziabad Competition
The National CSSR Competition took place at the 8th Battalion NDRF campus in Ghaziabad from March 9 to 11, featuring participation from 30 teams representing 27 states and Union territories across India. The Himachal Pradesh SDRF team not only emerged victorious but also set an impressive record by completing the challenging rescue exercise in just 41 minutes.
Disaster Vulnerability and Response Enhancement in Himachal
Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the state's particular vulnerability to natural disasters, referencing the extensive damage witnessed during disaster events in 2023 and 2025. He commended the coordinated efforts of multiple agencies, including the SDRF, home guards, fire department, and civil defence personnel, in executing successful rescue operations during these crises.
Launch of New Systems to Strengthen Disaster Preparedness
During the ceremony, Sukhu launched the innovative Home Guard Volunteer Management System, designed to improve coordination and efficiency among volunteer responders. Additionally, he reviewed the newly implemented Fire Safety Code 2026 as part of comprehensive efforts to enhance disaster preparedness across Himachal Pradesh.
These initiatives represent a strategic approach to bolstering the state's emergency response infrastructure, ensuring better protection for citizens against natural calamities.
