NATIONAL FIRE SERVICE DAY OBSERVED WITH SOLEMNITY AND PRIDE IN GOA
Panaji, April 14, 2026 – The Directorate of Fire & Emergency Services, observed National Fire Service Day on Tuesday, 14th April 2026. This year, the Fire Prevention Week carries the national theme: ““Safe School, Safe Hospital & Fire Safety Aware Society – Together for Fire Prevention”.
The commemorative events commenced at the Fire Force Training Ground in Panaji, where wreaths were laid at the Martyrs Memorial Column by Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod P. Sawant, Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, Chief Secretary of the Government of Goa, Shri. Nitin V. Raiker, Director of Fire & Emergency Services, along with all the officer ranks from Deputy Director (Fire) to Fire Fighters. A two-minute silence was observed to honor the brave Firemen Martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Shri. Raiker highlighted the significance of the day and solemnly read out the names of the fallen heroes.
A marvelous parade comprising 12 platoons was conducted as a part of the ceremonial proceedings. The parade was led by Parade Commander Shri. Rupesh S. Sawant, Station Fire Officer/OIC, Panaji Fire station, North Zone Panaji, showcasing the discipline, training, and dedication of the fire personnel.
The Chief Guest, Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod P. Sawant, reviewed the Ceremonial Parade and presented Commendation Certificates to fire personnel for outstanding performance in rescue operations, discipline, behavior, and dedicated service.
In his welcome address, Shri. Raiker announced that Fire Prevention Week would be observed from 14th to 20th April 2026, focusing on public awareness programs across Goa. He urged citizens to actively participate and enhance their fire safety knowledge to protect lives and property.
Shri. Raiker also presented key statistics and achievements from 2025-26, including various training programs such as the Training of Trainers in Basic Fire Safety and Evacuation Drills and Disaster Preparedness Training. Despite best efforts, fire incidents continued due to human error or accidents. The department responded to 8021 Fire & Emergency Calls (2942 Fire and 5079 Emergency), saving 165 human lives and 874 animal lives, and preserving property worth ₹63.52 crores through timely action.
As a part of the awareness campaign, a Poster Competition was held on 4th April 2026 for primary and middle school students. A total of 1307 students participated, divided into two groups:
Group I (7–10 years): ““Stop, Drop and Roll – Stay Safe from Fire””
Group II (11–14 years): ” Fire Safety Awareness for a Safer Society “
Winners were felicitated on National Fire Service Day by the Hon’ble Chief Minister.
In his address, Dr. Sawant paid heartfelt tribute to the fire service martyrs and acknowledged the unwavering dedication of fire personnel across India. He emphasized that while the nation progresses socially and economically, fire incidents continue to pose a threat to these advancements. Dr. Sawant also presented the Ph.D certificate to Dr. Nitin V. Raiker who has been conferred with Ph.D in Sociology by NIILM University, Kaithal, Haryana. His research involved studies on the Sociological Impact of ICT on Disaster Management in the State of Goa.
The event also featured live demonstrations of fire-fighting and rescue operations, including displays of advanced equipment such as fire-fighting robots. A public exhibition showcased gear such as Rapid Deployment Command & Control System, Side Sonar Device for Search & Rescue, Swift Water/Flood Response, Medical First Response (MFR), Urban Search & Rescue (USAR), and lighting systems.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister formally inaugurated the RDC2 system, procured under the 15th Finance Commission Scheme. The Rapid Deployment Command & Control (RDC2) System has been established under the 15th Finance Commission Scheme, integrating Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) radios and on-site dispatch consoles into a unified communication framework. During the event, the Hon’ble Chief Minister also interacted with an amateur HAM radio operator on the HAM communication network demonstrated by Shri Sandesh Bhat, a well-known HAM radio enthusiast from Saligao, Goa.
The Chief Guest and other dignitaries highly praised the entire event, commending the excellent organization, precision of the drill demonstrations, and the informative exhibition.
The event was compered by Shri Shripad Gawas, Divisional Officer, Fire Force Headquarters, who also delivered the vote of thanks.
