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The city of Chandigarh witnessed an extraordinary display of civic engagement as a large number of young individuals participated in the Civil Defence Volunteer program organized by the Union Territory administration. The overwhelming turnout, characterized by the eager presence of thousands of boys and girls, transformed the Tagore Theatre into a hub of youthful enthusiasm and commitment. The event showcased the willingness of young citizens to contribute to the safety and well-being of their community and nation. The sheer volume of participants necessitated a change of venue, with a significant portion of the crowd being redirected to the expansive Tiranga Ground in Sector 17 to accommodate the training sessions. This relocation underscored the immense popularity of the program and the strong desire among young people to learn essential skills for emergency response and community support.
The core of the Civil Defence Volunteer program centered around providing participants with practical training in fundamental life-saving techniques. The training encompassed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a crucial skill for reviving individuals experiencing cardiac arrest; administration of first aid, enabling volunteers to provide immediate assistance to injured persons; safe transportation of injured individuals to medical facilities or secure locations; and effective methods for extinguishing fires. These skills are invaluable for enhancing the community's capacity to respond effectively to various emergencies, ranging from accidents and natural disasters to medical crises and security threats. The training emphasized the importance of preparedness and the ability to take decisive action in critical situations, empowering volunteers to become valuable assets in safeguarding their community.
Throughout the training session, a palpable sense of patriotism and dedication filled the Tiranga Ground. The air vibrated with spirited slogans such as “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” reflecting the volunteers' profound love for their country and their commitment to serving its people. The enthusiasm of the participants was further amplified by the organizers' spirited call of “How’s the Josh?” which was met with a resounding response of “High, Sir.” This energetic exchange encapsulated the volunteers' high morale and their readiness to tackle any challenges that may arise in their role as civil defence personnel. Their unwavering commitment to the nation’s service, and their city’s wellbeing, were displayed in their enthusiastic participation.
Several participants voiced their expectations of being assigned specific duties by the UT Administration following the training. Varun Sharma, a 20-year-old Chandigarh resident, articulated the sentiment shared by many, expressing his readiness to be deployed anywhere as deemed necessary. Ranjana, an NCC cadet from Mohali, highlighted her existing training and preparedness, underscoring the potential for leveraging the skills and experience of existing community members to enhance emergency response capabilities. Sanket Khichy, a 19-year-old participant, echoed the sentiments of national service, stating his commitment to serving his nation and city, and his willingness to undertake any tasks assigned by the Administration. These voices reflect the eagerness of the volunteers to translate their training into practical action and to contribute meaningfully to the safety and security of their communities. The motivation and determination of these youngsters bodes well for the future of Civil Defence in the region.
The sheer volume of participants created logistical challenges, with some individuals unable to submit their registration forms due to the overwhelming rush. Karan Pratap Singh and his friends, Mayank Singh, Atulit Dadhwal, and Ragvender Rana, expressed their intention to submit their forms online, highlighting the adaptability and resourcefulness of the volunteers in overcoming obstacles to participation. Their willingness to embrace digital platforms to complete the registration process exemplifies their commitment to fulfilling their civic duties and their eagerness to contribute to the Civil Defence program. It also shows the need for the administration to adapt and utilise technology when handling such a large influx of volunteers in the future.
Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria expressed his delight at the overwhelming response from young people, acknowledging their high spirits and their commitment to serving the nation. He specifically noted that 3,000 youngsters had registered for the program, underscoring the significant impact of the initiative and the widespread enthusiasm for civil defence among the youth. The Governor's presence and encouraging words further motivated the participants, reinforcing the importance of their role in safeguarding the community and contributing to national security. His recognition of their efforts served as a testament to the value of their participation and the significance of the Civil Defence program in fostering civic responsibility and community resilience.
The event highlighted the importance of cultivating a sense of civic responsibility and encouraging young people to actively participate in community safety initiatives. By providing practical training in essential life-saving skills and fostering a spirit of volunteerism, the Civil Defence program empowers young citizens to become active contributors to the well-being of their communities. The program serves as a valuable platform for instilling a sense of patriotism, promoting civic engagement, and building a more resilient and responsive society. The success of the Chandigarh Civil Defence Volunteer program serves as a model for other regions seeking to harness the energy and enthusiasm of young people to strengthen their emergency preparedness and community safety capabilities. By investing in the training and empowerment of young volunteers, communities can build a more secure and sustainable future for all.
The long-term impact of the Civil Defence Volunteer program lies in its ability to create a pool of trained and dedicated individuals who can be mobilized in times of crisis. These volunteers, equipped with essential life-saving skills and a strong sense of civic duty, can provide invaluable support to emergency responders and assist in mitigating the impact of disasters and other emergencies. By fostering a culture of volunteerism and community involvement, the program contributes to the development of a more resilient and self-reliant society, capable of effectively addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. The skills they learn, the connections they make, and the experiences they have are vital to building strong, stable, and safe communities.
Furthermore, the program provides young people with opportunities for personal growth and leadership development. By participating in the training sessions and volunteering their time, they gain valuable skills in teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These skills are not only essential for emergency response but also highly transferable to other aspects of their lives, enhancing their employability and preparing them for leadership roles in their communities. The experience of serving as a Civil Defence Volunteer can be transformative, instilling a sense of purpose and empowering young people to become active agents of change in their societies. It encourages them to be responsible and aware citizens who are willing to contribute to the safety and wellbeing of others. This program is an investment in the future of the region, ensuring that future generations will have the knowledge, skills, and motivation to tackle any challenges that may arise.
In conclusion, the overwhelming response to the Civil Defence Volunteer program in Chandigarh exemplifies the strong spirit of civic engagement among young people and their willingness to contribute to the safety and well-being of their communities. The program provides invaluable training in essential life-saving skills, fosters a sense of patriotism and civic responsibility, and empowers young citizens to become active agents of change. By investing in the training and empowerment of young volunteers, communities can build a more resilient and responsive society, capable of effectively addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. The success of the Chandigarh program serves as a model for other regions seeking to harness the energy and enthusiasm of young people to strengthen their emergency preparedness and community safety capabilities. The high turnout, the enthusiastic participation, and the unwavering commitment of the volunteers demonstrate the power of civic engagement and the potential for young people to make a significant positive impact on their communities and their nation.
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Source: With ‘High Josh’, a sea of youngsters turn up for Civil Defence Volunteer program in Chandigarh