The Disaster Management Institute (DMI), Bhopal, in collaboration with Sphere (Geneva), UNICEF, Homeguards & SDERF, Inter-Agency Group MP, and Jan Abhiyan Parishad successfully conducted a three-days training on "Minimum Standards in Disaster Response" from July 1 to 3, 2024. This pivotal training aimed at enhancing the collective capacity to respond effectively to disasters within Madhya Pradesh, was conducted under the leadership of George V Joseph, Joint Director, DMI.
The training was inaugurated by George V Joseph from DMI, Mr. Anil Gulati, Communication Specialist UNICEF Bhopal, and Subhashis Roy, (Sphere Trainer) Global Program Manager of Lutheran Disaster Response International (ELCA). Their opening addresses highlighted the critical need for standardized and effective disaster response mechanisms, particularly in regions vulnerable to natural and human-made disasters in Madhya Pradesh. Technical session on Nutrition was taken by Pushpa Awasthy, Nutrition Specialist, UNICEF Madhya Pradesh on bringing focus on nutrition especially during disaster response.
Participants received both theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on training focused on the application of these standards within the Indian context, with a special emphasis on Madhya Pradesh. A key outcome of this training will be the development of a State Minimum Standards of Relief document for Madhya Pradesh, which will serve as a guiding framework for disaster response efforts across the state.
The training saw participation from a diverse group of stakeholders across Madhya Pradesh, including members from Homeguard & SDERF, Jan Abhiyan Parishad, and various NGOs and CSOs such as OASIS, VSS Vikaas Samvad, Sahyog Welfare, Sanskriti, Luwana Education & Welfare Society, Radhe Radhe Welfare Society, Mamta, Uday, Aarambh, Muskaan, Bachpan, Synergy Sansthan, Narmada Samagra, NCCH, Aawaj, Samarthan, Setu The Bridge, Trimurti, Sahara Saksharta, and Maanviya Seva Samiti.
The valedictory session was a fitting conclusion to the intensive training, highlighting the commitment and enthusiasm of all participants. Led by Executive Director O.P Shrivastava IAS, alongside Sudheer Dwivedi, Joint Director, George V. Joseph, Joint Director, and Dr. Asit Patra, Deputy Director DMI, the session provided a platform for participants to share their insights and reflections on the training. The Executive Director commended the participants for their dedication and presented certificates to acknowledge their successful completion of the program.
The Disaster Management Institute extends its gratitude to all participants and partners for their invaluable contributions to making this training a resounding success. The institute remains committed to continuing its efforts in building robust disaster response capabilities and ensuring the safety and resilience of communities across Madhya Pradesh.
