North Eastern States and IIT Guwahati Embark on Disaster Management Training in Japan
Guwahati, May 27, 2024: In a joint initiative by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Centre for Disaster Management and Research (CDMR), and the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), officials from the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) of the North Eastern Region are participating in a specialized training programme in Japan. The aim is to bolster their disaster management capacities with the latest global techniques.
The North Eastern Region of India, with its unique topography, is highly susceptible to natural calamities such as floods, earthquakes, and landslides, causing significant loss of life and economic damage over the years. Recognizing this vulnerability, the training programme seeks to equip SDMA officials with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement effective disaster prevention and mitigation measures.
Titled “Enhancing Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience Building Capacities of North Eastern States of India,” the project aims to promote pre-disaster investments and enhance mitigation efforts across the region. IIT Guwahati, as the project’s implementation agency, will tailor effective training plans for SDMAs to sustain the efforts based on the project’s findings.
The first batch of officials participated in a two-week programme from May 13-24, 2024, learning about Japan’s leading policies, technologies, and best practices in disaster risk reduction. Mr. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative, JICA India, emphasized the importance of acquiring the latest knowledge and technologies to enhance disaster preparedness in the region.
Moving forward, IITG and the state governments will collaborate with Japanese experts to identify specific challenges and capacity development needs in disaster risk reduction and management. JICA remains committed to strengthening the disaster resilience of communities in Northeast India through the transfer of cutting-edge technologies, knowledge, and best practices from Japan.