Need for trained volunteers at local level for disaster response underscored
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 19 2023:
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Joint Secretary, Kunal Satyarthy interacted with Aapda Mitra volunteers of Imphal West district at Kuranganayani Hall.
DC Office Complex, Imphal West today.
Speaking in this connection, Kunal Satyarthy informed that Aapda Mitra is a country-wide project sponsored by NDMA to train and raise community volunteers in disaster response.
Highlighting the necessity of trained volunteers at the local level in case of disasters, he stated that the Government had launched this project to fill this need.
Further, he shared that preparations are underway to launch another programme of Aapda Mitra.
"The Government's objective is to raise well-trained local volunteers who can assist the SDRF and NDRF personnel when disasters strike the country", he maintained.
MH Khan, Additional Chief Secretary (R&DM) also spoke on the occasion and stated that a 12-day training programme of Aapda Mitra volunteers which commenced from January 16 is currently ongoing in Imphal West.
Similar training programmes have been conducted in Thoubal, Ukhrul and Bishnupur and the remaining districts will be covered in the near future, he stated.
Notably, H Balaram, CO, State Disaster Management Authority also graced the interactive session.
'Aapda Mitra' means 'friends during disasters' .