Distt admin Budgam conducts training prog. on Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction & Management

BUDGAM: With the objective of strengthening the capacities of field functionaries and community stakeholders in disaster preparedness, mitigation and response, district administration Budgam today conducted a one day district level training programme on ‘Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction and Management’.

The day-long programme was held under the supervision of the district administration and witnessed the active participation of the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Budgam, Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), District Information Officer (DIO), all Block Development Officers (BDOs), all Assistant Engineers (AEs) and all Junior Engineers (JEs) of the Rural Development Department (RDD).

Retd. Professor G M Dar, (Retd. Prof. at IMPARD) was the guest speaker on the occasion. In his address, he elaborated on the importance of disaster preparedness, awareness creation, early warning dissemination, community-based planning and proactive response mechanisms. He highlighted that effective disaster management is not confined to institutional arrangements alone but must involve active participation of communities at the grassroots level to ensure resilience and timely action.

During the training, participants were sensitized on various aspects of disaster risk reduction including risk identification, vulnerability mapping, preparedness measures, mitigation strategies, resource mobilization and coordination among line departments. Practical insights were shared on how field officers and engineers can contribute to minimizing risks through effective planning and implementation of safety measures in their respective jurisdictions.

Professor Dar emphasised that natural and man-made disasters, though unpredictable, can be effectively managed if communities are empowered with knowledge and equipped with proper response mechanisms. He also underlined the importance of strengthening local institutions, conducting regular mock drills, building community awareness, and promoting inter-departmental collaboration to reduce vulnerabilities and safeguard lives and property.

Addressing the gathering, ADC Budgam reiterated the commitment of the district administration towards adopting a community-centric approach to disaster management. He stressed the need for proactive engagement of officers and community representatives to ensure that disaster risk reduction measures are integrated into developmental planning and execution.

The training programme served as a platform for officers to interact, exchange experiences and discuss practical challenges faced in the field. It was resolved that all concerned departments will extend full cooperation and work in a coordinated manner to strengthen disaster preparedness and response mechanisms across the district.

District administration Budgam reaffirmed its resolve to continue organizing such capacity-building initiatives in the future as part of its broader mission to establish a resilient and disaster-prepared district, where communities are better equipped to face any eventuality with confidence and preparedness.