With the passing of years, natural disasters have become more frequent and powerful in India. From floods and cyclones to earthquakes and cloud bursts, these disasters need an aware and trained set of community people who could act swiftly during emergencies. Keeping in mind the above need, the Government of India has initiated the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme, a mega volunteer training program being put in place to build disaster preparedness at grassroots levels.
Coordinated by NDMA in close association with youth organizations such as the NCC, NSS, NYKS, or Bharat Scouts & Guides, it is one of the visionary approaches of grooming youth in India to act as first responders in times of disasters. The program has already been launched in states like Tripura, where cadets are undergoing real-time training through camps such as CATC-53 in Agartala.
Let us take a deep dive into what exactly the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme is, who can benefits from, how to apply, and why this scheme is among the most significant youth disaster response programs in India!
About Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme
The Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme was launched by NDMA to train 2,37,326 young volunteers across 315 disaster-prone districts of India. These youth will be trained in disaster preparedness, emergency response, flood relief, and rescue techniques. The scheme also includes training for 1,300 Master Trainers (ToTs) to further train other volunteers.
The scheme will work in close partnership with the NCC, NYKS, NSS, and BS&G units across all 28 states of India. Every trained volunteer will receive an Emergency Response Kit (ERK), certificate, and 3-year insurance coverage.
Read Also- PM Wani Wifi Connection
Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme 2025: Overview Table
| Scheme Name | Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme (YAMS) |
| Launched By | National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) |
| Collaboration With | NCC, NSS, NYKS, BS&G, SDMA |
| Total Volunteers to be Trained | 2,37,326 |
| Number of Districts | 315 (Most disaster-prone areas) |
| States Covered | 28 |
| Training Period | Till March 2026 |
| Key Training Areas | Flood relief, rescue, emergency response, disaster preparedness |
| Tools Provided | : Certificate, Emergency Response Kit (ERK), Insurance for 3 years |
| Total Budget | ₹469.53 Crore |
Objectives of Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme
- To train a large number of young volunteers in disaster response and emergency handling.
- To build a strong and local disaster response team in each disaster-prone district.
- To spread disaster awareness and knowledge in communities through youth participation.
- To create a national emergency stockpile at district/block level.
- To prepare Master Trainers (ToTs) who will further train local volunteers.
- To develop standard training modules and digital platforms for knowledge sharing.
Read Also- Palak Mata Pita Yojana
Eligibility
- Must be between 18 to 35 years of age.
- Should be a part of NCC, NSS, NYKS, BS&G, or a similar youth volunteer group.
- Should be physically fit and mentally ready for training.
- Must be a resident of one of the 315 disaster-prone districts.
Benefits
The Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme offers multiple benefits to the selected volunteers:
- Free professional training in disaster management and rescue work.
- Certificate of training from the Government.
- Emergency Response Kit (ERK) with life-saving tools.
- Insurance coverage for 3 years.
- Opportunity to become a Master Trainer and train others.
- Helps build leadership skills and improves employment opportunities.
- Chance to serve the nation during disasters and emergency times.
Required Documents
Applicants may need to provide the following documents while enrolling in the scheme:
- Aadhar Card
- Age proof (Birth Certificate/10th Marksheet)
- ID card of NCC/NSS/NYKS/BS&G (if applicable)
- Passport size photo
- Residential proof
- Medical fitness certificate (may be required during training)
Read Also- Ayushman Card List
How to Apply for Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme
Currently, there is no open public portal for individual registration. The selection and training process is done through coordination with organizations like NCC, NSS, NYKS, and BS&G at the district and state levels.
Here’s how you can get involved:
- Contact your local NCC, NSS, or NYKS office.
- Submit your interest and necessary documents.
- If selected, you’ll be invited to attend the training at an authorized training camp.
- After training completion, you will receive your certificate, kit, and insurance.
- Note: Government may launch an online portal in future for direct application.
Contact Details
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- NDMA Bhawan, A-1, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi – 110029
- Website: https://ndma.gov.in
- Email: controlroom@ndma.gov.in
- Dial: 1070
For state-specific queries, contact your State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) or local NCC/NSS/NYKS office.
FAQs – Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme
What is the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme?
The Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme is a training program started by NDMA to train young volunteers in disaster response and emergency management.
Who can join this scheme?
Youth aged 18–35 who are part of organizations like NCC, NSS, NYKS, or BS&G can join the scheme.
What will I get after the training?
You will get a training certificate, an emergency response kit, and insurance for 3 years.
Is there any fee to join this scheme?
No, the training and equipment are provided free of cost by the government.
How can I apply?
You can apply through your local NCC, NSS, NYKS, or BS&G office. Currently, there is no online portal for direct application.
Can I apply if I’m not in NCC or NSS?
Right now, the scheme is available only through registered youth volunteer groups. You may join one of these groups first to become eligible.