Lucknow, June 1 -- The state government has drawn up an ambitious roadmap to modernise the Home Guards organisation with chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday directing officials to strengthen the force through technology-driven systems, improved training, better infrastructure and enhanced welfare measures. Reviewing the Home Guards department, he said the state government's priority is to develop the organisation into a modern, capable and disciplined force that remains ready for public service in every situation. He stressed that Home Guards and police personnel are often the first responders during emergencies and should therefore receive mandatory training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid, with a focus on the importance of the "golden hour" in saving lives. The review assumes significance as the state moves ahead with the recruitment process for 41,424 vacant Home Guard posts. The chief minister directed officials to transform the Civil Defence Department into a modern, statewide emergency response force, with trained volunteers, regular mock drills, and expanded public participation at its core. Chairing a review meeting of the department, chief minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that civil defence has evolved far beyond its traditional wartime role and is now central to disaster preparedness, rescue operations, public safety, and community resilience. "The Civil Defence Department must emerge as a strong shield for disaster management and public safety," he said, stressing the need to enhance capacities in relief and rescue, firefighting, first aid, search-and-rescue operations, and emergency response. The chief minister directed officials to accelerate recruitment for all vacant positions and ensure that newly inducted volunteers receive modern training and equipment to tackle diverse disaster situations effectively....