The second meeting of the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group (DRRG) concluded successfully in Puri, Odisha, under India’s BRICS 2026 chairship.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) held a joint press conference at Lok Seva Bhavan in Bhubaneswar on June 6. Senior officials, including Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, NDMA members Krishna Swaroop Vatsa and Dr Dinesh Kumar Aswal, Additional Chief Secretary Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, and OSDMA Executive Director Dr Kamal Lochan Mishra, attended the briefing.
The meeting, themed “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” brought together delegates from eight BRICS nations—China, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, South Africa, and the UAE. Odisha showcased its globally recognised disaster management practices, including cyclone preparedness, early warning systems, evacuation planning, and community-based resilience.
Delegates praised Odisha’s achievements in achieving near-zero casualties during major cyclones. They also witnessed a live ODRAF water rescue demonstration at Ramchandi, highlighting the State’s operational readiness and specialised equipment.
Beyond technical sessions, the event highlighted Odisha’s cultural heritage. Delegates visited the Konark Sun Temple and experienced Odissi, Chhau, Jatra, and tribal performances, appreciating the State’s rich traditions and diversity.
Officials emphasised that the successful hosting of the BRICS DRRG meeting enhances Odisha’s international profile as a leader in disaster resilience. The outcomes align with the Viksit Odisha 2036 vision, which aims to strengthen resilient infrastructure, modernise ODRAF, and maintain zero casualty outcomes across disasters.
