West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday launched 'Arjun Vahini' for early-stage disaster response, initially comprising 200 personnel, primarily retired soldiers and former Agniveers.
Of the 200 personnel, 100 will be deployed in Kolkata, while 50 each will be stationed in the hills and the Sunderbans, he told reporters at the state secretariat.
"The force will be tasked with responding to disasters and emergencies," the chief minister said.
About their remuneration, Adhikari said the head of the force, 'Veer Nayak', will receive a monthly honorarium of Rs 40,000, while the other members, 'Veers', will be paid Rs 25,000.
"Their remuneration will increase by three per cent annually," he said, adding that the force will primarily comprise retired soldiers and former Agniveers.
In the event of death while on duty, they will be provided Rs 10 lakh compensation, while Rs 5 lakh ex gratia will be paid for permanent disability, the chief minister said.
Adhikari added the new force would eventually be developed along the lines of the National Disaster Response Force, with greater manpower and advanced technology to strengthen its disaster-response capabilities.