The Family Planning Association of India (FPA India) Nagaland Branch observed the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) at Holy Family Higher Secondary School on October 16.
KOHIMA, OCTOBER 16 (MExN): The Family Planning Association of India (FPA India) Nagaland Branch marked the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) with a special event for young people at Holy Family Higher Secondary School on October 16. The global observance, held annually on October 13, aims to underscore the importance of reducing disaster risks and enhancing community resilience.
A press release on this informed that General Manager V. Vincent Belho emphasized the particular vulnerability of Nagaland and Northeast India to natural hazards such as landslides, earthquakes, and floods. He stressed the urgent need to foster a disaster-resilient youth movement in light of climate change.
Belho highlighted the importance of understanding geographical vulnerabilities and the impacts of climate change. He urged young people to become active change-makers through climate activism, community engagement, and participation in school programs. He also encouraged them to learn about evacuation procedures, basic first aid, emergency response techniques, and the responsible use of technology for early warnings and verified information dissemination during disasters.
In addition, he pointed out the necessity for inclusive disaster risk reduction strategies that consider marginalized communities, including women and people with disabilities, who often face greater challenges during emergencies.
Vingosanuo Khatso, Program Officer at FPA India Nagaland Branch, shared insights on the importance of identifying and mitigating risks to enhance community safety and readiness in the face of disasters.
The event also included an interactive disaster preparedness exercise, where participants worked on creating an emergency plan and assembling emergency kits. The program concluded with a strong message about the importance of staying informed, practicing emergency drills, and actively engaging in disaster risk reduction efforts.
Holy Family Higher Secondary School Principal Ashikho Boso expressed gratitude to the FPA team for bringing the program to the school, emphasizing the need for all young people to be educated on disaster preparedness to build a resilient community amidst the challenges posed by climate change.
