International Collaboration in Disaster Management Highlighted at Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration

The Indian Army recently held a significant Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration aimed at enhancing disaster management practices among various stakeholders. The event witnessed the participation of 15 senior officials and representatives from nine friendly foreign nations within the Gulf Cooperation Council, Indian Ocean Region, and South East Asia. This international collaboration highlighted the vital importance of sharing best practices, domain knowledge, and experience in managing disasters effectively.

The demonstration centered on a simulated cyclone scenario, allowing multiple agencies to work in coordination on logistics, rapid response, and effective disaster management strategies. Key participants included the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, Indian Coast Guard, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), alongside the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and other central and state agencies. This collaborative effort aimed to reinforce the collective response capabilities in the face of natural calamities.

In addition to military participation, representatives from several important organizations were present at the event. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA), the Meteorological Department, and FICCI contributed their expertise and insights into enhancing disaster response frameworks.

Complementing the demonstration was an industrial display designed to showcase innovations and technological advancements in disaster response made by Indian defense industries. This platform not only facilitated the exhibition of various technologies but also emphasized India’s commitment to self-reliance and continuous technological progress in managing disasters efficiently.

General (Gen) Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), praised the collaborative efforts of all participants. He recognized their commitment and effort in organizing and executing the exercise with professionalism and excellence, reinforcing the critical nature of preparedness and coordinated responses in disaster management scenarios.