In a landmark development for the Union Territory, the Andaman and Nicobar Fire & Emergency Services Training Centre has officially launched its first-ever batch of the Sub-Officers Course. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), in the presence of top-ranking officials and dignitaries.
This momentous event marks the formal recognition of the A&N State Training Centre as the 11th institution in India authorized by the National Fire Service College (NFSC), Nagpur, to conduct the Sub-Officers Course, a major achievement for the islands and a step forward in strengthening the country’s fire safety infrastructure.
The ceremony saw the presence of Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, Chief Secretary, and Shri Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, IPS, Director General of Police, along with other senior officials from various departments. Their attendance underlined the significance of the occasion and the government’s commitment to improving fire and emergency services in the territory and beyond.
The Sub-Officers Course is a 25-week intensive residential training programme, designed to develop the skills and leadership capabilities of mid-level officers in fire services. The first batch comprises 30 officers from various states and organizations, including the Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL), Gujarat Fire Services, Bihar Fire Services, and the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC). These trainees will undergo rigorous physical training, classroom instruction, fire-fighting drills, and rescue operations as part of their curriculum.
The launch of this course not only enhances the prestige of the A&N Fire & Emergency Services but also positions the islands as a hub for professional fire service training. It is expected to draw more trainees and professionals from across the country in the years ahead, thereby contributing to national capacity-building in fire and disaster management.
Speaking at the event, Admiral Joshi emphasized the importance of institutional readiness and skill development in managing fire-related emergencies. He highlighted that the need for professionally trained fire officers is more urgent than ever, especially in industrial hubs and urban centers experiencing rapid infrastructure development. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the Fire & Emergency Services Department for achieving this milestone and urged the trainees to make the most of the opportunity.
Chief Secretary Dr. Kumar praised the dedication of the department in aligning with national standards and establishing a facility that meets the rigorous criteria set by NFSC Nagpur. He noted that the training centre will also benefit local emergency services in the islands, improving their response time and preparedness in times of crisis.
The inclusion of officers from mainland states also reflects the growing trust in the capabilities of A&N Islands to provide high-quality training, with infrastructure and expertise now at par with leading institutions on the mainland.
This milestone underscores the islands’ expanding contribution to national emergency preparedness and reaffirms their role in supporting India’s fire safety ecosystem.
