Home adviser underscores vital role of volunteers in disaster response
Acknowledging the scale of challenges during large emergencies, Jahangir emphasised that volunteer support is critical for professional responders.
Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has stressed the need for specialised training, particularly in earthquake preparedness, alongside recalling the indispensable role of volunteers in national service and disaster response.
"Volunteers are embracing the spirit of speed, service, and sacrifice in national service and disaster response," he said.
He made the remarks today while opening the programme marking the International Volunteer Day 2025, organised by the Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD) at its Multipurpose Training Ground in Rupganj, Narayanganj.
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The adviser commended the Fire Service as an institution widely regarded as the country's friend in times of trouble.
Jahangir said that trained volunteers have increasingly been serving alongside firefighters in major fires, earthquakes, and disaster operations, often risking their lives without any expectation of personal gain.
Acknowledging the scale of challenges during large emergencies, Jahangir emphasised that volunteer support is critical for professional responders.
He stressed the need for continuous investment in volunteer development, including regular refresher training, motivational programmes, public engagement events, and observance of national days to strengthen community-based disaster response.
Highlighting the global observance of International Volunteer Day-first celebrated in 1985-the Adviser underscored its importance in recognising and promoting volunteer engagement worldwide.
He extended special congratulations to Bangladeshi volunteers for their continued dedication to humanitarian service.
The Home Adviser said that the FSCD is advancing toward its target of forming a nationwide volunteer force of 62,000 members.
"Over 55,000 volunteers have already been trained under the initiative," he said.
He called for sustained cooperation between volunteers and the FSCD for the greater welfare of the nation.
The Home Adviser paid solemn tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War and to those who sacrificed their lives during the historic July-August 2024 Mass Uprising.
He noted that the interim government remains committed to building a non-discriminatory, just, and inclusive Bangladesh-a vision reinforced by the sacrifices of students and citizens during that pivotal movement.
