North Eastern States and IIT Guwahati partner with Japan to bolster disaster management skills

A collaborative effort between Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Centre for Disaster Management and Research (CDMR), and the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG) is set to fortify the disaster management capabilities of State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) officials in India’s North Eastern Region. This initiative, under JICA’s training program, aims to equip officials with the latest global techniques for disaster prevention and mitigation.

The North East, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, faces significant vulnerability to natural disasters including floods, earthquakes, and landslides. The region has endured numerous calamities, resulting in substantial loss of life and economic damage over the years.The project, titled “Enhancing Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience Building Capacities of North Eastern States of India,” seeks to empower SDMA officials with the necessary knowledge and skills to implement effective disaster prevention measures. Through tailored training plans designed by IIT Guwahati, the program aims to sustain efforts in enhancing disaster risk reduction measures.

The inaugural two-week training program, held from May 13-24, 2024, provided participants with insights into Japan’s leading policies, technologies, and best practices in disaster risk reduction. Mr. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative of JICA India, emphasized the importance of leveraging Japanese and global knowledge to enhance disaster preparedness in the region.