State 26 August 2026
West Bengal Govt to Form ‘Arjun Bahini’ Disaster-Response Force with Agniveers
Why in the News?
The West Bengal government is set to form a new dedicated disaster-response force named "Arjun Bahini" by recruiting Agniveers to handle natural disasters and emergency situations effectively.
Key Features / Major Points:
Arjun Bahini Formation: Modeled on the lines of the NDRF, the force will become operational in September and will be equipped with modern equipment for rapid disaster response.
Personnel Deployment: Out of the initial 200 personnel selected via the Sainik Board, 100 will be stationed in Kolkata, 50 in the hill regions, and 50 in Sagar Island.
Reservation for Agniveers: A 20 percent reservation will be provided for retired Agniveers in recruitments across state Fire & Emergency Services, Forest Department, Police, and Disaster Management Department.
Strengthening Disaster Readiness: The force aims to bolster state-level rescue operations and optimize the utilization of disaster management funds.
Static GK Facts:
Agnipath Scheme: Launched: June 2022 | Purpose: Recruitment of youth into the Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force) for a 4-year tenure.
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): Formed: 2006 (under Disaster Management Act, 2005) | Headquarters: New Delhi.
West Bengal: Capital: Kolkata | Major Sea Port: Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (Kolkata Port).
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Q: What is the name of the new disaster-response force being set up by the West Bengal government using Agniveers?
A: Arjun Bahini
Q: How many personnel of the Arjun Bahini will be stationed in Kolkata in the first phase?
A: 100 personnel
Q: What percentage of reservation has been announced for Agniveers in West Bengal's police, forest, and disaster management departments?
A: 20 percent