The Central Training Institute (CTI), Home Guards, Civil Defence and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Toluvi, Dimapur, conducted the valedictory programme of the Civil Defence Master Trainers Course on November 4, 2025, marking the completion of a 21-day capacity-building programme for Civil Defence officers from Nagaland and Manipur.
The programme was chaired by Dr. Thingtimla, Medical Officer, CTI. It began with opening remarks by the chairperson and short speeches from trainees representing Manipur and Nagaland, who highlighted the importance of inter-state collaboration, practical training, and continuous up skilling to enhance disaster resilience and community preparedness.
Delivering the valedictory address, MedozhaliePeinyu, Deputy Commandant General, Home Guards, Civil Defence & SDRF, Nagaland, commended the trainees for their commitment and discipline throughout the training. He stated that the role of a Master Trainer extends beyond responding to emergencies- it involves serving as force multipliers who will train, motivate, and inspire others at district and community levels. He noted that the Civil Defence organization depends on individuals who demonstrate selflessness, leadership, and resilience during times of crisis.
He further acknowledged the dedication of the Commandant, CTI, along with the instructors and staff, for their professionalism and tireless efforts in organizing the training. He remarked that through such training initiatives, the Civil Defence department continues to strengthen its foundation of preparedness, response, and leadership across the Northeastern region. Peinyu also encouraged the participants to take the knowledge gained and apply it effectively in their respective units, promoting awareness and readiness among local communities to mitigate the impacts of disasters.
Emphasizing that the completion of the course was not the end but a new beginning, Peinyu urged the trainees to continue learning and sharing their skills, upholding the Civil Defence motto, “Service Before Self”. He concluded by stressing the need for teamwork and cooperation among states to build safer and more resilient communities, calling for continued collaboration in the spirit of public service and disaster management.
The 21-day Master Trainers Programme on Capacity Building and Preparedness included sessions on emergency communication systems, air raid warning systems, collapsed structure search and rescue (CSSR), reconnaissance and damage assessment, emergency methods of rescue (EMR), medical first response (MFR), and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) response.
A total of 30 Civil Defence officers- 20 from Nagaland and 10 from Manipur- successfully completed the programme. The training, which commenced on October 10, 2025, was held under the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Directorate General of Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards, Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Directorate of Civil Defence, Home Guards & SDRF, Nagaland.
The valedictory event concluded with closing remarks by the chairperson, acknowledging to the resource persons and CTI faculty for their contribution to the successful conduct of the programme.
(Tiakumla Ao, IA Dimapur)
