Uttarakhand, which is extremely sensitive to natural disasters, has once again registered its strong identity not only at the national but also at the international level in the field of disaster management. Uttarakhand’s disaster management model was praised openly in the second technical meeting of the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) working group held from 3 to 5 June 2026 in Puri, Odisha under the chairmanship of India.
Senior officials, technical experts and policy makers from 11 BRICS member and partner countries including Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Indonesia participated in the three-day meeting. The objective of the meeting was to exchange experiences on disaster risk reduction, strong infrastructure, community-based early warning systems, forecast-based rapid response mechanisms and sustainable financial arrangements for disaster management.
Natural challenges of Uttarakhand
In the conference, various countries shared their innovations and successful models in the field of disaster management. In this sequence, Commander SDRF Arpan Yaduvanshi (IPS) and Director ULMMC Shantanu Sarkar represented the state from Uttarakhand. Both the officers gave a detailed presentation on disaster risk reduction, pre-preparedness, capacity development, technological innovation and effective response mechanisms developed under the leadership of Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority.
The geographical complexities of Uttarakhand, Himalayan conditions, landslides, excessive rainfall, glacial lakes, road blockages and risks associated with pilgrimage were laid out in detail. Besides, the multi-agency coordination system, early warning system and quick relief-rescue system developed in the state were also prominently presented.
In particular, Silkyara Tunnel Rescue Operation and Dharali disaster management operations were put forward as successful disaster management models of Uttarakhand. The delegates present at the conference described these campaigns as excellent examples of patience, technology, administrative coordination and human sensitivity in difficult geographical conditions.
Special appreciation of trade-offs between risks
In the meeting, Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority’s early warning system, risk reduction measures and coordination between various departments were especially appreciated. At the same time, the quick and effective response capability of Uttarakhand SDRF was highlighted as an excellent disaster response model in challenging circumstances.
Commander SDRF Arpan Yaduvanshi said, due to the sensitive and proactive approach of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami towards disaster management, risk reduction, pre-preparedness, capacity building and coordination between agencies are being continuously strengthened in the state. Efforts are being made to minimize the impact of disasters through scientific planning, efficient administration and timely decision making.
He said that disaster management in a hilly state like Uttarakhand cannot be limited to relief and rescue only. For this, prior preparation, participation of local communities, availability of trained forces and technology based monitoring system are extremely necessary.
What is the purpose of BRICS meeting?
The activities conducted in the state under the direction of Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman were also shared with the representatives. ULMMC Director Shantanu Sarkar said, geospatial technology, remote sensing, data analytics and early warning systems are making disaster risk reduction more effective. Technology-based solutions will play a decisive role in dealing with future disaster challenges.
The major achievements of the conference included strengthening cooperation in disaster risk reduction among BRICS countries, promoting technological innovations, developing common strategies to strengthen preparedness at the community level and giving new direction to global disaster management cooperation.
The appreciation received by Uttarakhand’s model in the meeting of BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) working group is being considered as a big achievement for the state. This is international recognition for the continuous efforts of Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority, SDRF and other agencies.
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