The move is intended to encourage greater participation of women in the fire service. | Photo Credit: PHOTOS FOR REPRESENTATIVE PURPOSES ONLY
Karnataka could get its first set of women firefighters. In a major move to promote gender neutrality and inclusivity, the State Government has for the first time proposed key changes to the designation of posts within the Fire and Rescue Services Department, changing the term “firefighter” to the gender neutral title “firefighter” in all official records and future recruitment notices.
The decision follows guidelines issued during a meeting of the Union Home Ministry to encourage greater participation of women in fire services across the country. Based on these recommendations, the state has initiated steps to implement the changes and the process is underway.
Under the new policy, women will be given 10% reservation in direct recruitment to the posts of firemen and officers in the Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services Department in various categories.
In addition, the designation “Leading Fireman” will be renamed “Leading Firefighter” to ensure uniformity and gender neutrality across ranks.
The changes will be made in accordance with the provisions of the Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services Rules, 2013. All future recruitment notifications will reflect the revised nomenclature. The modalities of the recruitment and training process will be finalized soon as it is still ongoing, said a senior officer.
Established in 1964, the department plays a key role in responding to fires, natural disasters, floods, animal rescue and enforcing fire safety standards in buildings across the state.
According to official figures, the department has an authorized strength of 7,159 posts, of which around 5,200 officers and personnel are currently on duty.
Officials expressed hope that the move would strengthen gender equality within the force and encourage greater participation of women in emergency response services.
Published – 20 February 2026 07:00 IST