Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 19 May 2025
In line with the directive of the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration mandating quarterly mock drills and sensitization programmes, the Directorate of Disaster Management (DDM), in coordination with multiple departments, organized a Sensitization and Awareness Programme at the Community Hall of Gram Panchayat Sippighat, South Andaman.
The event was conducted in collaboration with the Health Department, Fire & Emergency Services, Police, Electricity Department, APWD, and the District Administration. It aimed to enhance disaster preparedness at the grassroots level by equipping community volunteers and local stakeholders with critical knowledge and skills.
Participants included community volunteers, Gram Panchayat staff, Anganwadi workers, Self Help Group (SHG) members, and MGNREGA workers. The Pradhan, Zilla Parishad Member, Sarpanch, former Zilla Parishad Member, and Ward Members of the Gram Panchayat attended the event as guests of honour.
Speaking on the occasion, Assistant Director of DDM, Mr. Janik Ram, highlighted the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters and underlined the importance of community-level Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies to minimize the impact of such events in the A&N Islands.
During the technical session, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) conducted basic life-saving training sessions, focusing on Search and Rescue (SAR) and Medical First Responder (MFR) techniques. An Inspector from the Fire Service addressed household fire and electrical safety, while officials from the Electricity Department urged participants to use electrical appliances responsibly and practice energy conservation.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Panchayat Secretary of Sippighat Gram Panchayat, who expressed appreciation for the participation and support of all departments and attendees.