Civil Defence Rules, 1968

• The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed all States and Union Territories to invoke emergency powers under the Civil Defence Rules, 1968.
• This move is in response to perceived external threats or imminent danger to national security.

⚖️ Legal Authority: Section 11 – Emergency Procurement Powers

• Empowers Directors of Civil Defence to:
  • Procure essential goods and services rapidly
  • Implement preventive and protective measures
• Rules framed under the Civil Defence Act, 1968

Purpose of the Civil Defence Rules

• Originally designed to prepare for hostile attacks (air, land, sea)
• Applicable before, during, and after such events

Scope of Civil Defence Activities

• Protect people, infrastructure, and property
• Mitigate damage and ensure rapid recovery
• Engage civilian population and local agencies in response measures

Role of Local Bodies

• Municipalities and local authorities must:
  • Fund emergency efforts from their own budgets
  • Prioritise these duties over regular administrative work

Key Implications

• States now have broad powers to act swiftly in emergencies
• Reflects heightened preparedness amid rising national security tensions
• Encourages pre-emptive action, not just reactive responses