Pramesh S Jain
The Karnataka government plans to establish fire stations in all taluks and major hoblis across the state to improve emergency response and strengthen fire and emergency services,Home Minister Priyank Kharge said on Thursday.
Addressing the inauguration of the second All India Fire Services Sports Meet–2026 at the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Fire and Emergency Services Academy on Bannerghatta Road, Kharge said the government was committed to the comprehensive development of the department and would provide the necessary infrastructure, facilities and financial assistance to improve its efficiency.
The initiative is in line with the Centre’s objective of establishing fire stations in every taluk across the country.
The proposed expansion in Karnataka is expected to ensure faster assistance during fire accidents and other emergencies.
Praising the contribution of fire and emergency services personnel, Kharge said they worked round the clock to protect lives and property, often operating in hazardous conditions.
Their courage, physical fitness, presence of mind and ability to work as a team were crucial to ensuring public safety, he said.
Emphasising the importance of sportsmanship at the event, the minister said winning and losing were part of sports, but the respect earned through honesty, dedication and fair play was more valuable than medals and awards.
He urged participants from various states to maintain discipline, respect fellow competitors and participate with enthusiasm.
Sports, he said, were not merely about competing against others but also about constantly improving one’s own abilities.
Kharge expressed hope that the sporting event would strengthen friendship, cooperation, unity and healthy competition among fire and emergency services personnel from across the country. He also congratulated the department’s senior officers and staff for organising the meet.
Director General of Karnataka State Home Guards,Civil Defence,Fire and Emergency Services and State Disaster Response Force Prashant Kumar Thakur,Additional Director General of Police M.Nanjundaswamy, Deputy Director General Renuka K.Sukumar,Fire Adviser Prashant Lonkar,Deputy Fire Adviser Moreshwar and other senior officials attended the event, along with sportspersons from various states.
