, Director Fire & Emergency Services){kind=link}
APRIL 19: As part of the ongoing Fire Service Week, an essay-cum-speech competition was organized today at the Fire & Emergency Services Headquarters in Gandhinagar, Jammu. The event was held under the directions of Alok Kumar (ADGP), Director Fire & Emergency Services, J&K, and formed an integral part of the department’s week-long activity plan aimed at spreading awareness about fire safety among the youth.
The competition, themed “Unite to Ignite, A Fire Safe India,” witnessed enthusiastic participation from students representing various schools across District Jammu. A total of 19 students from different educational institutions showcased their talent and awareness by delivering well-prepared speeches and essays on fire safety, underlining the importance of being informed and responsible citizens.
Presiding over the event was Deputy Director Fire & Emergency Services, Command Jammu, Raj Kumar Raina. A three-member jury comprising Sanjay Nagri (Accounts Officer), Dr. Manju (Medical Officer), and Himanshu Gandotra (Assistant Director) evaluated the performances. Each participant was allotted five minutes to present their thoughts on the given topic, and their content, clarity, confidence, and delivery were closely assessed.
Aditya, a Class 8 student of Bhartiya Vidya Mandir Senior Secondary School, Ved Mandir, Amphalla, emerged as the winner, securing the first position. He was presented with a memento, a certificate, and a cash prize of ₹3000. The second prize went to Akshara, a Class 9 student of Modern Public High School, Channi Himmat, who received a memento, certificate, and ₹2500 in cash. Pooja, a Class 10 student from the same school, bagged the third position and was awarded a memento, certificate, and a cash prize of ₹2000.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Director Raj Kumar Raina congratulated all participating students and their mentors for their spirited involvement. He urged the students to not only follow fire safety protocols in daily life but also to become ambassadors of awareness by actively participating in campaigns during Fire Service Week.
As a mark of respect and remembrance, all participants took a Fire Safety Pledge and paid tributes at the Martyrs Memorial located at the headquarters, joined by school staff accompanying the students.
The event not only highlighted the importance of fire safety but also successfully engaged young minds in the mission of building a fire-safe India.