‘Fireman’ to ‘Firefighter’: Karnataka to introduce 10% quota for women in recruitment

Karnataka was able to recruit its first batch of women firefighters. In a significant move aimed at promoting gender neutrality and inclusivity, the state government has, for the first time, proposed significant changes to the designation of positions within the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, replacing the term “Firefighter” with the gender-neutral title “Firefighter” in all official records and future recruitment notices.

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The decision comes following instructions issued at a meeting of the Union Home Ministry to encourage greater participation of women in fire services across the country. The government has initiated steps to implement changes in line with these recommendations and the process is ongoing.

As per the new policy, 10% reservation will be provided to women in direct recruitment to different categories of firefighter and station attendant posts in the Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services Department.

Additionally, the “Leading Firefighter” title will be renamed “Leading Firefighter” to ensure uniformity and gender neutrality among the ranks.

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The changes will be implemented in accordance with the provisions of the Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services Rules, 2013. All future recruitment notifications will reflect the revised terminology. A senior official said that the modalities of the recruitment and training process will be determined soon as the process is still ongoing.

Established in 1964, the department plays a key role in responding to fire accidents, natural disasters, floods, animal rescues and enforcing fire safety norms in buildings across the state.

According to official data, the ministry has a sanctioned force of 7,159 posts, of which approximately 5,200 civil servants and personnel are currently in service.

Officials have expressed hope that the move will increase gender parity within the force and encourage greater participation of women in emergency response services.