Gujarat has successfully trained over 4,000 young volunteers in the initial phase of the ‘Yuva Aapda Mitra’ Scheme. The state aims to establish a community-based disaster response force across 17 districts, with women making up half of the participants. The scheme, led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, focuses on preparing local volunteers to conduct immediate rescue and relief operations during disasters.
Under the current phase of the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme, 4,526 volunteers have completed training out of a total target of 11,850 volunteers from various organizations in 17 districts. The initiative, launched in 2016, has expanded its reach in Gujarat with the goal of enhancing the state’s disaster response capabilities. The scheme emphasizes the active involvement of women to bolster their role in disaster risk management.
The volunteers, known as Aapda Mitras, are individuals aged 18 to 40 who are physically and mentally capable of carrying out rescue operations during emergencies. Training under the scheme includes a seven-day program conducted by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and master trainers in the first phase, followed by advanced training at the Sardar Patel Institute of Public Administration (SPIPA) in the second phase. The program covers various districts in Gujarat, providing essential skills to the volunteers.
To support rescue efforts, each trained volunteer receives an Emergency Responder Kit valued at Rs 10,000, comprising crucial items such as a life jacket, solar torch, first-aid kit, helmet, and a 50-meter rescue rope. Additionally, district authorities maintain an Emergency Equipment Reserve Resource (EERR) kit worth Rs 19 lakh for large-scale emergency operations, equipped with tools like an inflatable rescue boat, chainsaw, satellite GPS, and walkie-talkies. Eligibility criteria include residency in the concerned district and a minimum educational qualification of Class 7.
Upon successful completion of training, volunteers are awarded a certificate, an identity card, and insurance coverage of Rs five lakh for three years as part of the scheme’s social security measures. Aapda Mitras from Bharuch have actively participated in relief efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and floods in 2020, demonstrating the scheme’s effectiveness in crisis situations. District Emergency Operation Centres (DEOCs) maintain updated contact lists of trained Aapda Mitras to mobilize them promptly during emergencies, offering valuable assistance to citizens and local authorities.
