NSDMA observes International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction

DIMAPUR: Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), Home Department, observed the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2026 under the theme “Resilience Starts at Home” at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima, on October 13.
The programme highlighted the importance of disaster risk reduction, household preparedness, community participation and the role of disaster response agencies in building a safer and more resilient Nagaland. It aimed to strengthen awareness of disaster risks and emphasised the need to move beyond emergency response towards prevention, mitigation and preparedness.
Nagaland remains vulnerable to natural hazards, particularly landslides and floods during the monsoon season. Recent damages to houses, roads, agricultural land and public infrastructure have underscored the importance of strengthening disaster preparedness and reducing risks at the community level.
Delivering the keynote address, advisor NSDMA and Inland Waterways, Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe stressed the importance of preparedness at household and community levels. He called for greater public awareness, preventive measures and coordinated efforts to minimise loss of lives and property. He underscored that disaster management requires collective efforts of the government, response agencies and the public, with preparedness and mitigation receiving equal attention alongside response and recovery.
The programme also recognised the service and performance of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) through commendation awards. SDRF Dimapur Unit received the “Best Performing SDRF Unit” award, while HG T. Nokyuh Konyak of SDRF Mon was presented the “SDRF Commendation Certificate.”
The role of Home Guards, Civil Defence and SDRF in strengthening the State’s disaster response capacity was highlighted, with emphasis on their contribution to emergency response, rescue, evacuation and assistance during disasters. The programme stressed the need for continued capacity building, regular training, mock drills and operational readiness.
An address was delivered by Medozhalie Pienyii, Deputy Commandant General, Home Guards, Civil Defence and SDRF. The observance also featured a special song by the SDRF Unit, Kohima.
The technical session included a presentation by the District Commandant, Dimapur, and an experience sharing session by the Company Commander, Mon District, focusing on operational experiences in the SDRF. An interactive session encouraged discussion and exchange of views on disaster management and response.
Through the observance, NSDMA reiterated the importance of strengthening disaster preparedness and mitigation while promoting a culture of safety and resilience across Nagaland.