Maharashtra government has partnered with the Mumbai University to introduce a civil defence course in its academic curriculum, realising the growing need for emergency preparedness. This move follows a series of successful mock drills conducted across Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik, where over 10,000 volunteers from Civil Defence, Home Guards, and the NDRF participated to strengthen public awareness.

Carrying a weightage of 25 marks, the course will be implemented across all engineering colleges affiliated with the University. Students will be trained in rescue operations, first aid, and coordination with civic bodies such as disaster management units, fire services, and hospitals. The idea is to offer students a chance to serve the nation while pursuing their studies.

Despite its critical role, the Directorate of Civil Defence faces acute shortages in manpower, vehicles, and equipment. Of the 420 sanctioned posts, only 135 are filled statewide. Units in districts like Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg are operating with just one full-time employee each. Many rescue vehicles and ambulances are outdated or unserviceable. 

A proposal has been submitted to raise the daily volunteer allowance from ₹150 to ₹500, alongside requests for new vehicles, sirens, and training tools. The government is reportedly supportive and efforts are underway to strengthen the department’s operational capacity.