The second meeting of the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group (DRRG), hosted by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) under India’s BRICS 2026 Chairship, concluded successfully in Puri from June 3 to 5. A joint press conference was subsequently held at Lok Seva Bhavan by the NDMA and the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) to highlight the outcomes of the international event.

The conference was attended by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, NDMA Member Krishna Swaroop Vatsa, NDMA Member Dr. Dinesh Kumar Aswal, Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Special Relief Commissioner and OSDMA Managing Director Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, Executive Director OSDMA Dr. Kamal Lochan Mishra, and other senior officials.

Eight BRICS Nations Discuss Disaster Resilience

The meeting, themed “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” brought together senior officials and technical experts from eight BRICS member countries—China, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. The discussions focused on strengthening global cooperation in disaster risk reduction and enhancing resilience against natural disasters.

Odisha’s Disaster Management Model Earns Global Recognition

Hosting the prestigious international meeting provided Odisha an opportunity to showcase its globally acclaimed disaster management framework. The state presented its achievements in early warning systems, cyclone preparedness, evacuation planning and community-based disaster management.

Delegates highly appreciated Odisha’s success in protecting lives during disasters and acknowledged its sustained efforts toward achieving near-zero casualty outcomes during major cyclones.

ODRAF Demonstrates Rescue Capabilities

As part of the programme, delegates witnessed a live water rescue demonstration conducted by ODRAF at Ramchandi. The exercise highlighted Odisha’s operational preparedness, advanced rescue equipment and rapid response capabilities for flood and water-related emergencies.

Culture and Tourism Take Centre Stage

The event also showcased Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential. Delegates visited the Konark Sun Temple and enjoyed performances of Odissi, Chhau, Jatra, and tribal dance and music, earning widespread appreciation from international participants.

Boost to Odisha’s Global Profile

Officials said the successful hosting of the BRICS DRRG Meeting has further strengthened Odisha’s reputation as a global leader in disaster resilience and preparedness. The event aligns with the vision of Viksit Odisha 2036, which aims to achieve zero-casualty disaster management, develop resilient infrastructure, modernise ODRAF and minimise disaster-related losses to lives and livelihoods.

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