What is the objective of the "Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States" launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs?

The Ministry of Home Affairs launched the "Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States" with an outlay of Rs. 5,000 crore. Rs. 500 crore is allocated for incentivizing states based on legal and infrastructure reforms. The scheme was announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a meeting on June 13, 2023. The objective is to strengthen fire services at the state level and make India disaster resilient. State governments need to contribute 25% of the project cost (10% for NEH states) from their own resources. The scheme is based on the recommendation of the Fifteenth Finance Commission. Rs. 5,000 crore from the National Disaster Response Fund is earmarked for fire service expansion and modernization. About National Disaster Response Fund The National Disaster Response Fund is a fund managed by the Central Government and is used for meeting the expenses incurred during emergency relief, disaster response and rehabilitation in the event of a disaster.