In a good move, the Directorate of Emergency Services will train 350 community volunteers whose services will be utilised for disaster response, relief and rehabilitation in the state. These 'Apada Mitras' and 'Apada Sakhis' shall be first responders in case of any calamity hitting the state whether natural or manmade. They shall be trained in paramedical procedures, satellite phone operations, rigging up temporary base hospitals, driving, tapping tertiary healthcare facilities and other disaster relief measures. Most will work independently while some shall work in conjunction with NDRF and other central relief agencies. Such training should also be extended to able-bodied high school students who can make a meaningful contribution during emergencies on lines of the NCC and the territorial army reserves.
Rekha Sarin, Benaulim
