The West Bengal government is set to form a new disaster-response force called the “Arjun Bahini” by recruiting the Agniveers to deal with emergencies.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said the force will become operational in September. So far, 200 personnel have been selected through the Sainik Board. Of them, 100 will be stationed in Kolkata, 50 in the hills and 50 in Sagar.
Akashvani correspondent reports that modelled on the lines of the NDRF, the force will be equipped with modern machinery, and they will be able to respond immediately to any kind of disaster.
The Chief Minister alleged that although the Central government provides substantial funds for disaster management, the previous government failed to utilise the money.
Mr. Adhikari also announced that a 20 per cent reservation would be provided for Agniveers in recruitment to the Fire and Emergency Services, Forest Department, Police and Disaster Management Department.