Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 04 November 2023
The Government of India’s ‘Up-scaling Aapda Mitra Scheme’ is making significant strides in strengthening disaster preparedness in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in collaboration with State Governments and State Disaster Management Authorities, is implementing this initiative aimed at equipping local community volunteers with essential skills for responding to immediate needs during and after a disaster.
Under the scheme, a target has been set to train 300 community volunteers, with 100 from each district of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These trained volunteers, known as Aapda Mitras, are being prepared to effectively respond to disasters, coordinate relief efforts, and manage crisis situations, ultimately contributing to saving lives.
The Directorate of Disaster Management has taken the lead in conducting Disaster Management Trainings for Community Volunteers in each district. So far, 289 Community Volunteers have been trained under the scheme, with the latest training session taking place in South Andaman District.
In a significant development, Emergency Response Kits were distributed to the trained Aapda Mitras in South Andaman District on November 3, 2023. The distribution took place in the premises of the Directorate of Disaster Management.
During the event, Mr. Janik Ram, Assistant Director (Administration) at DDM, welcomed the gathering and provided an overview of the scheme and the vital role that Aapda Mitras play in supporting the administration’s efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness. He emphasized that Aapda Mitras are essential assets in the event of a disaster in the islands.
The chief guest of the event, Mr. Manoj Kumar Dwivedi, Director of Disaster Management, commended the Aapda Mitras for their voluntary participation in Disaster Management programs aimed at managing disasters in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He encouraged the Aapda Mitras to continue supporting the District Administration in building community capacity for disaster management.
Mr. Manoj Kumar Dwivedi also personally distributed the Emergency Response Kits to all Aapda Mitras of South Andaman District, marking an essential step in further enhancing disaster preparedness in the region.
The ‘Up-scaling Aapda Mitra Scheme’ is not only providing essential skills and tools to local volunteers but is also strengthening the collective resilience of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the face of potential disasters. With the commitment of trained Aapda Mitras and the support of the government, the region is better prepared to respond to emergencies and protect its communities.