Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s globally acclaimed disaster management model received international recognition during the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Group (DRRG) Meeting held in Puri from June 3 to 5 under India’s BRICS 2026 Chairship. The successful hosting of the event not only facilitated global cooperation in disaster risk reduction but also provided a platform for the state to showcase its achievements in disaster preparedness, resilience and community-based response mechanisms.
A joint press conference on the outcomes of the meeting was held at Lok Seva Bhavan by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA). Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, NDMA Member and Head of Department Krishna Swaroop Vatsa, NDMA Member Dr. Dinesh Kumar Aswal, Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Special Relief Commissioner and OSDMA Managing Director Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, OSDMA Executive Director Dr. Kamal Lochan Mishra and senior officials attended the briefing.
The three-day meeting, organised under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” brought together senior officials and disaster management experts from eight BRICS member countries—China, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. The deliberations focused on strengthening international cooperation and sharing best practices in disaster risk reduction and resilience-building.
Officials said hosting the meeting in Odisha offered an opportunity to demonstrate the state’s internationally recognised disaster preparedness framework. During the event, Odisha presented its experience in cyclone management, early warning dissemination, mass evacuation planning and community-based disaster response. Delegates appreciated the state’s remarkable progress in safeguarding lives during natural disasters and acknowledged its success in achieving near-zero casualty outcomes during major cyclones in recent years.
The conference also enabled direct interaction between Odisha’s disaster management professionals and international experts, facilitating knowledge exchange and discussions on emerging global challenges in disaster risk reduction. Delegates witnessed a live water rescue demonstration by the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) at Ramchandi, where specialised rescue equipment and operational preparedness for flood and water-related emergencies were showcased.
Apart from disaster management initiatives, Odisha used the occasion to highlight its rich cultural heritage and tourism potential. Delegates visited the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Konark Sun Temple and experienced the state’s vibrant cultural traditions through performances of Odissi, Chhau, Jatra and tribal dance and music. Participants expressed appreciation for Odisha’s cultural diversity, architectural heritage and historical significance.
Officials said the successful conduct of the BRICS DRRG Meeting has further enhanced Odisha’s international standing as a leader in disaster resilience and preparedness. The event aligns with the state’s long-term vision under Viksit Odisha 2036, which focuses on achieving zero casualty outcomes during disasters, strengthening resilient infrastructure, modernising ODRAF and minimising the impact of disasters on lives and livelihoods.
