Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States

The Ministry of Home Affairs recently launched the “Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States” to enhance fire safety infrastructure across the country. With a substantial budget of Rs. 5,000 crore, this scheme aims to address the critical need for improved fire services.  

Expanding and Modernizing Fire Services 

The main goal of the scheme is to enhance and update fire services at the state level, guaranteeing strong measures for preparedness and capacity building. By strengthening fire services, the scheme aims to enhance the overall fire safety infrastructure across the country. This initiative was announced by Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, during a meeting held in New Delhi. 

Financial Allocation and Incentives 

The scheme received a significant financial allocation of Rs. 5,000 crore. Out of this amount, Rs. 500 crore has been specifically reserved for incentivizing states based on their legal and infrastructure-related reforms. This provision encourages states to actively participate in the scheme and implement necessary reforms to improve fire safety. 

Contributions and Recommendations 

State governments are required to contribute 25% of the total project cost from their own budgetary resources, except for the North-Eastern and Himalayan (NEH) states, which contribute 10%. The scheme is derived from the recommendation of the fifteenth finance commission (XV-FC). The commission allows an allocation of 12.5% from both the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for the Funding Window of Preparedness and Capacity Building. 

Designation of Funds 

An impressive amount of Rs. 5,000 crore from the total NDRF corpus has been designated for the priority area of “Expanding and Modernization of Fire Services.” This substantial financial allocation underscores the importance of addressing fire safety concerns and improving the overall response capabilities of fire services. 


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