The Department of Geology at North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, organised a national workshop on disaster risk reduction on July 11-12.
Activities included an online quiz, conducted by Shikhar Kumar, with 350 registered participants from different states. First position was secured by Mrinmoy Bhattacharjee of Army Public School Shillong, followed by Chinmoy Jyoti Dutta of NEHU Shillong and Priyanshi Ghanghas of Chandigarh. The top three received prizes and all participants got an e-certificate.
Following the quiz, a mock drill on earthquake emergency response and preparedness was carried out under the direction of HPS Kandari, Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Guwahati.
This hands-on simulation served as a key component of the day’s programme, offering participants a vivid portrayal of coordinated response measures during an earthquake. More than 48 trained NDRF personnel took part in the exercise, bringing along specialised equipment and rescue tools vital for managing such emergencies. The drill replicated real-time response operations, including the creation of a command post, the establishment of a medical base in a designated safe zone, continuous monitoring of the scenario and the provision of first aid and pre-hospital emergency treatment to affected individuals. Approximately 100 people witnessed the exercise. In parallel, the NDRF also hosted an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge technologies and tools currently deployed in disaster rescue missions and emphasised the force’s evolving capabilities in managing complex emergency situations.
In the valedictory programme, Prof Devesh Walia, Dean of NEHU’s School of Human and Environmental Sciences (SHES) and convener of the workshop, delivered the address, emphasising the importance of Prime Minister’s 10-Point Agenda on disaster risk reduction. He elaborated on the development and contribution of India’s disaster management framework, highlighting the 2016 National Disaster Management Plan, which builds upon the Disaster Management Act (DMA) of 2005. Prof. Walia further stressed that every institution- from schools and workplaces to individual households—should develop its own disaster management plan.
Kandari, as chief guest, delivered a keynote address titled ‘Sentinels of Bharat Rashtra to Combat Disaster’.
With its headquarters in Guwahati, the 1st Battalion is responsible for the North East, covering Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura. He noted that the NDRF is not only involved in emergency response but also deeply committed to community-level capacity building, recognising communities as the true first responders. He stressed the need for disaster preparedness and continuous training, the importance of contextual awareness during disasters, including understanding the local geography, infrastructure and administrative responsibilities, the importance of community awareness, technological integration (including artificial intelligence) and empowering youth.
