The 80th Independence Day of the country was celebrated with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm at the Fire Force Headquarters, St. Inez, Panaji, by the Directorate of Fire & Emergency Services, Government of Goa. As part of the Independence Day celebrations, Dr. Nitin V. Raiker, Director, Fire & Emergency Services, unfurled the National Flag at the Fire Force Headquarters in the presence of senior officers, fire personnel and administrative staff of the Directorate. The ceremony was attended in full strength by the operational and administrative personnel, reflecting the spirit of unity, discipline and collective commitment towards the service of the people of Goa.
Prior to the National Anthem, the National Song was played , followed by the ceremonial unfurling of the National Flag. The National Anthem was thereafter rendered with due solemnity and respect, with all fire personnel participating in the ceremony in accordance with the prescribed protocol. Addressing the gathering , Dr. Nitin V. Raiker , Director, Fire & Emergency Services, extended his warm greetings and best wishes to all the officers, fire personnel and staff on the occasion of Independence Day .
He appreciated the dedication , discipline , courage and professionalism displayed by the personnel of the Directorate in responding to emergencies and safeguarding precious lives and property across the State. Further the Director highlighted that the responsibilities of the Fire & Emergency Services extend beyond firefighting and include emergency response, rescue operations, disaster preparedness, fire prevention, public awareness and providing timely assistance to citizens during emergencies. He commended the personnel for discharging these responsibilities with dedication, often under challenging and hazardous conditions. Dr. Raiker called upon all the fire personnel to continue carrying out their duties with devotion, discipline and a strong sense of responsibility, keeping public safety and service to the society at the forefront. He emphasised the importance of teamwork, preparedness, professionalism and continuous improvement in ensuring an effective emergency response mechanism.
The Independence Day celebrations at Fire Force Headquarters reaffirmed the Directorate’s unwavering commitment towards life safety, protection of property, emergency preparedness and service to the community. The ceremony concluded on a patriotic note, with the personnel reaffirming their commitment to discharge their duties with courage, discipline and dedication in the service of the nation and the people of Goa.
