Jowai, October 17 : “Trained men, women and youths act as the first responders in the event of a disaster before official help arrives. Their timely intervention during the golden window is crucial to saving lives,” stated Brenning A. Sangma, Minister of Civil Defence and Home Guards, during the inauguration of the newly constructed Civil Defence and Home Guards Office Building at Hali Synna, Jowai.
Sangma emphasized the department’s vital role in strengthening Meghalaya’s disaster preparedness and response system. He noted that the department has trained thousands of volunteers in disaster management, search and rescue, first aid, and community awareness, contributing to a more resilient state.
Dedicating the new office to the people, the Minister said the inauguration represents more than an infrastructure milestone—it reaffirms the Government’s commitment to empower institutions that protect and serve communities. He informed that the district offices previously operated from a rented space at Dong Mihsngi, Ladthalaboh, Jowai.
Highlighting recent developments, Sangma announced that the department successfully recruited 445 new personnel and organized its first-ever Rozgar Mela on 20th August 2025, distributing appointment letters to successful candidates. He also revealed the Government’s approval for subsuming 708 permanent posts from the Border Wing Home Guards Battalion into two battalions of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), a move aimed at enhancing disaster response capacity.
Wailadmiki Shylla, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, who served as Guest of Honour, spoke about his contribution toward constructing the road to the new site. He praised the department’s volunteer training initiatives and emphasized the need for more such programs across Jaintia Hills and the state.
Earlier, Brenning A. Sangma was accorded a Guard of Honour before officially inaugurating the office by cutting the ribbon and unveiling the plaque. The event also featured speeches from M.K. Sangma, Director of Civil Defence, Meghalaya, and R.P. Khongwar, Joint Commandant General of Home Guards, Meghalaya.
The ceremony concluded with special performances by the Brass Band of the Border Wing Home Guards Battalion and the Pipe Band of the Central Training Institute of Civil Defence and Home Guards, Meghalaya, Shillong.
