India
Call to strengthen response mechanism to natural disasters
By Ministry of Home Affairs, India
Sep 12, 2005, 20:21

India has asked the Global community to enhance co-operation and strengthen the response mechanism to tackle Natural Disasters.

Inaugurating the two day Asia-Pacific Regional Group meeting of the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) here today, the Minister of State for Home, Shri S. Regupathy emphasized the need to consolidate the communication network among the National authorities, International Disaster managers, NGOs and other agencies so that those affected receive rapid and appropriate assistance. He also underlined the importance of ensuring that measures are in place for prevention, mitigation and response in an effective and coordinated manner to natural disasters in the country and neighbourhood.

Highlighting the measures adopted by the government to prepare and respond to natural disasters, Mr. Regupathy said that there has been a change in the disaster management policy orientation in the country from �relief centric approach� to a �holistic multi-disciplinary and multi-sectoral approach�. This new approach encompasses all the elements of disaster management i.e. prevention, mitigation preparedness, response, relief and rehabilitation. He further added that to effectively respond to any disaster situation with the help of specialized Response teams, National Disaster Response Force has been constituted. Besides, the Government has recently created a National Disaster Management Authority chaired by the Prime Minister to create complete synergy among all parts of the disaster management cycle.

Addressing the delegates, United Nation�s Assistant Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief coordinator Ms. Margareta Wahlstrom said that Indian experience in handling the Natural disasters is extremely valuable to make an effective strategy for a quality response to natural calamities. She further emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation among nations to handle these disasters.

Delegates from 23 countries are participating in this meeting, organised by the Government of India.

Established in 1991, INSARAG is an inter-governmental network under the United Nations umbrella, which deals with Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) and related disaster response issues. INSARAG provides a platform for exchange of information to define standards for international USAR assistance and develop methodology for cooperation and co-ordination in earthquake response.

All rights reserved by www.rxpgnews.com