For implementation of standards for early warning systems and preventive measures against natural disasters among all States, the Central University of Odisha (CUO), Koraput organised a three-day awareness programme on ‘Disaster Risk Vulnerability Assessment and Management’ through virtual mode in collaboration with National Institute of Disaster Management, Union Ministry of Home Affairs. In the inaugural session on September 22, Executive Director of NIDM, Maj Gen Manoj Kumar Bindal delivered the keynote address and Head, GMRD, NIDM Prof Surya Prakash introduced the major aims andobjectives. Vice-Chancellor I/c of the CUO Prof SK Palita delivered a special address. It is the first programme under the banner of a knowledge
partner with other Institutes of Government of India and coordinated by Dr Kakoli Banerjee, Assistant Professor, Biodiversity and Conservation of Natural Resources Department, CUO and Dipali Jindal, Junior Consultant, NIDM. Dr AL Haldar, Consultant NIDM convened the awareness programme.Prof Palita highlighted different types of disasters with special reference to Super Cyclone in 1999 and Bhuj earthquake of Gujarat which helped Government of India undertake disaster management policy measures.
He also mentioned praiseworthy developments of Odisha in developing better preparedness strategies for disaster risk reduction and management.
Major General Bindal welcomed the CUO and encouraged the collaboration between the institutes for future disaster mitigation policy measures and undertake projects too.
Prof Prakash highlighted the UNO mandate, the Sendai Framework for disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) and also the preparedness of Odisha against the maximum disasters it faces. The inaugural session was followed by a technical session with Dr Kakoli Banerjee and Dr Malay Kumar Pradhan, GM (F&B) Odisha State Disaster Management Authority taking part in discussion. Dr Banerjee spoke on ‘Invasive Species: a Natural Disaster to Biodiversity’ highlighting the future invasive impact in Koraput district and the steps to be taken for its prevention.
Dr Pradhan addressed on ‘Challenges on Management of Chemical (Industrial) Disasters’ and highlighted on the various precautionary measures to be taken for chemical disaster outbursts in industries and the recommendations he has provided to OSDMA through his various experiences.