Leh, April 06, 2026
In a significant step towards strengthening disaster preparedness in the region, a sensitisation workshop on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) was conducted in Leh. The workshop was organised by the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) in collaboration with the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRR&R), UT Ladakh.
The event was held in the presence of Madhup Vyas, Executive Director of NIDM.
The workshop aimed at building a strong foundation of disaster awareness, with a special focus on preparedness, effective communication, community participation, and resilience, particularly in the high-altitude context of Ladakh. Emphasis was also laid on the use of digital learning tools and social media for timely risk communication and behavioral change.
During the technical sessions, Shekhar Chaturvedi, Assistant Professor at NIDM, delivered an in-depth presentation on institutional mechanisms and DRR planning. He highlighted key aspects of the Disaster Management Act, major hazards in Ladakh, roles of disaster management agencies, the Incident Response System, and challenges faced during emergency planning.
In another session, Nazia Khan, Senior Consultant and IPRO at NIDM, spoke about the institute’s digital initiatives. She elaborated on e-learning platforms, the iGOT portal, online disaster management courses, and capacity-building programmes. She also highlighted specialised modules on climate change, earthquake risk reduction, community-based disaster management, and gender-sensitive recovery strategies.
An interactive open-house discussion saw active participation from personnel of NDRF, CRPF, ITBP, and various departments, who raised queries on disaster preparedness and Ladakh-specific challenges. Experts addressed these concerns in detail.
In his concluding remarks, Madhup Vyas stressed the importance of translating knowledge into practical preparedness. He also informed participants about an upcoming conference on April 18, which will include a dedicated session for State Disaster Management Authorities, urging officials to assess future human resource needs in the sector.
He further noted that Leh and Ladakh are increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters and environmental challenges, especially in light of growing tourism and development activities.
The workshop concluded with a valedictory address by the Deputy Commissioner Leh, who appreciated the efforts of the organisers and resource persons.
The event witnessed participation from senior officials of the UT Administration, including DC Leh, ADC Leh, representatives from LDMA, line departments, district and block-level officers, civil society organisations, and other key stakeholders.
