The Civil Defence Rules, 1968

Why in News ?   The Ministry has directed all States and Union Territories to grant emergency procurement powers to civil defence authorities due to the current security threats and hostile attacks, particularly along the western border..

The Directorate’s letter, referencing Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, emphasizes that State governments are empowered to take necessary measures to protect people, property, and vital services during hostile attacks.

Relevance :  UPSC Pre & Mains

Prelims: the Civil Defence Rules, 1968/Important sections

Mains : GS-III: Security and Disaster Management

About  Civil Defence Rules, 1968:

The Civil Defence Rules, 1968 in India were enacted under the Civil Defence Act, 1968 to provide a legal framework for organizing and implementing civil defence measures to protect citizens, property, and vital services during hostile attacks or emergencies.

 Overview of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968:

Purpose: The rules aim to ensure the safety of the population, minimize damage to property, and maintain essential services during wartime or emergencies caused by hostile attacks. They establish mechanisms for civil defence training, organization, and resource mobilization.

Scope: Applicable across India, the rules empower state governments and local authorities to take proactive and reactive measures for civil defence, including coordination with agencies like the Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

Structure: The rules cover the establishment of civil defence services, powers of authorities, funding mechanisms, training programs, and operational protocols.

Key Sections :

Section 3: Constitution of Civil Defence Services

Description: This section outlines the establishment of civil defence services at the state and local levels, including the appointment of personnel such as controllers, wardens, and volunteers.

Importance: It forms the organizational backbone of civil defence, defining roles and responsibilities for coordinating activities during emergencies.

Key Provisions:

• State governments can constitute civil defence services for specific areas.
• Appointment of a Controller of Civil Defence to oversee operations.
• Recruitment and training of volunteers for tasks like rescue, first aid, and communication.

Section 4: Functions of Civil Defence Services

Description: Specifies the duties of civil defence personnel, including protection of life and property, rescue operations, fire-fighting, evacuation, and maintenance of essential services.

Importance: It provides a clear mandate for civil defence activities, ensuring preparedness and response to hostile attacks or disasters.

Key Provisions:

• Measures to mitigate the effects of air raids or bombardments.
• Coordination with other emergency services like police and fire brigades.
• Public education on civil defence measures.

Section 11: Powers of State Government During Hostile Attack

Description: As highlighted earlier, this section empowers state governments to take necessary measures for the protection of persons and property and to ensure the continuity of vital services during a hostile attack.

Importance: It is a critical provision for emergency response, enabling rapid decision-making and resource allocation. It was recently invoked in the Ministry’s directive amid Pakistan’s aerial attacks (2025 context).

Key Provisions:

• States can implement measures deemed necessary for safety and service continuity.
• Local authority funds can be used for emergency expenses, with priority over other financial obligations.
• Enables emergency procurement powers for civil defence authorities.

Section 12: Requisition of Property

Description: Allows state governments or authorized officers to requisition property (e.g., buildings, vehicles, or equipment) for civil defence purposes during emergencies.

Importance: Ensures access to critical resources when time is of the essence, supporting operations like evacuation, shelter provision, or logistics.

Key Provisions:

• Compensation mechanisms for requisitioned property.
• Temporary acquisition of resources with legal safeguards for owners.

Section 14: Control of Lights and Sounds

Description: Empowers authorities to regulate lighting and sound emissions to prevent detection by enemy forces during air raids or similar threats.

Importance: Critical for blackout measures and reducing visibility to hostile forces, especially during wartime scenarios.

Key Provisions:

• Orders for dimming or extinguishing lights in vulnerable areas.
• Restrictions on sound-producing activities that could aid enemy targeting.

Section 16: Penalties for Non-Compliance

Description: Outlines penalties for individuals or entities failing to comply with civil defence orders, such as ignoring blackout regulations or obstructing civil defence personnel.

Importance: Ensures adherence to civil defence measures, maintaining discipline and effectiveness during emergencies.

Key Provisions:

• Fines or imprisonment for violations.
• Legal action against willful obstruction of civil defence duties.

Rule 18: Training and Exercises

Description: Mandates regular training programs and mock drills for civil defence personnel and the public to ensure preparedness.

Importance: Enhances readiness and public awareness, critical for effective response during actual emergencies.

Key Provisions:

• Organization of training camps and exercises.
• Involvement of schools, colleges, and community groups in civil defence education.

Rule 21: Financial Provisions:

Description: Details the funding mechanisms for civil defence activities, including grants from central/state governments and the use of local authority funds.

Importance: Ensures financial support for civil defence operations, especially during crises when rapid funding is needed.