BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 25th June 2025: An extensive interview session for the recruitment of civil defense volunteers was conducted at the Panisagar Subdivision Magistrate’s office yesterday morning. The initiative, spearheaded by the Disaster Management Team of the 13th Battalion of Tripura State Rifles (TSR), aims to strengthen grassroots-level disaster preparedness.
Out of 411 applications received, 349 candidates turned up for interviews. According to SDM Sushanta Debbarma, 100 volunteers will be selected through this process. The shortlisted candidates will undergo residential training, after which they will receive a daily allowance of Rs 300 for their service.
Applicants included youth from tribal-dominated regions such as Damcherra, Khedacherra and Panisagar reflecting rising interest among indigenous communities in disaster response efforts. “The youth have shown remarkable enthusiasm. Their participation is critical in building a resilient civil defense network,” said Debbarma.
The northeastern state of Tripura is classified in Zone V, the highest-risk category for natural disasters. With this vulnerability in mind, the government has launched statewide recruitment drives to mobilize trained volunteers across districts and subdivisions.
A dedicated emergency response unit comprising five to six members is already stationed at the Panisagar office during the monsoon season. These volunteers remain on standby for immediate deployment in times of local crises.
Debbarma also credited North Tripura district’s DM Chandni Chandran for her pivotal role in facilitating the recruitment drive, stating, “This initiative has gained momentum due to her continuous guidance and leadership.”
The recruitment initiative is being hailed as a meaningful step toward empowering local communities to respond swiftly to unforeseen natural calamities.
