Kolkata: Sumit Sarkar, Additional General Manager & Additional Chief Patron of Civil Defence, Eastern Railway, inaugurated the 62nd Annual Civil Defence Programme-2024 at the Sealdah DRM’s Sports Ground, Kolkata. The programme was graced by the presence of Deepak Nigam, Divisional Railway Manager & Chief Civil Defence Officer, Sealdah, along with other Senior Officers and staff. The event was organized under the leadership of Ved Prakash, Deputy General Manager (G) & Deputy CCD, Eastern Railway.
Sumit Sarkar Additional General Manager unfurled the Civil Defence flag, accompanied by the RPF Band playing the flag hoisting tune. This was followed by an inspection of the Civil Defence contingents and a grand March Past, during which Shri Sarkar took the salute.
Civil Defence volunteers from five key units like Headquarters, Sealdah, Howrah, Liluah, and Kanchrapara attended the program and demonstrated their exceptional skills in disaster management, including fire-fighting techniques, first-aid response, crowd management, and rescue operations from high rise buildings. A multimedia presentation showcased the activities and achievements of Civil Defence in ensuring safety and preparedness during major public events like Durga Puja, Gangasagar Mela, and Shravani Mela. More than 500 staff of Eastern Railway are members of Civil Defence family
Sumit Sarkar delivered an inspiring speech before the contingent and media representatives, emphasizing the crucial role of Civil Defence in welfare initiatives and disaster management activities. The focus was particularly on the contributions of the Eastern Railway’s Civil Defence team in these areas.
Awards were distributed to the best-performing contingents and individuals as follows:
Best Contingent (Gents): Sealdah
Best Contingent (Ladies): Howrah
Best Contingent Leader (Gents): Liluah
Best Contingent Leader (Ladies): Headquarters
Best Board Bearer: Kanchrapara
Sumit Sarkar distributed the prizes and lauded the commitment of Civil Defence personnel towards ensuring the safety and welfare of railway passengers and infrastructure. Deepak Nigam, DRM Sealdah, and other senior officials commended the efforts of all participants. A special token of appreciation was presented to Md. Noor Hasan, CDI (PT) SDAH, for his exemplary service.
The programme concluded with a cultural performance and a vote of thanks, reaffirming Eastern Railway’s commitment to fostering a culture of safety, resilience, and community service.
