Odisha has achieved a significant milestone on the global stage as Puri hosts the prestigious BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group Technical Meeting for the first time. The three-day international conference began on Wednesday under India’s BRICS Presidency 2026.
The event marks Odisha’s first-ever opportunity to host a BRICS-level conference, showcasing the state’s internationally recognised expertise in disaster preparedness and management.
Delegates From 11 Countries Gather in Puri
Representatives from 11 BRICS member and partner nations have arrived in Puri to participate in the high-level discussions. The participating countries include Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia.
The meeting aims to strengthen cooperation among member countries in tackling natural disasters, climate-related risks, and humanitarian challenges through knowledge sharing and coordinated action.
Focus on Disaster Resilience and Climate Challenges
During the three-day conference, experts and policymakers will discuss key issues such as:
- Disaster prevention and preparedness
- Climate resilience strategies
- Technological innovations in disaster management
- Sustainable recovery and rehabilitation
- International cooperation and capacity building
As the first in-person technical meeting of the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group during India’s 2026 chairmanship, the event is expected to generate practical recommendations for enhancing disaster response systems across participating nations.
Odisha’s Global Recognition in Disaster Management
Odisha has earned national and international recognition for its effective disaster management model, particularly in handling cyclones, floods, and extreme weather events.
Hosting the BRICS meeting reflects growing global confidence in Odisha’s disaster preparedness framework and highlights the state’s role as a leader in resilience-building and risk reduction initiatives.
Tight Security Arrangements in Place
Authorities have implemented extensive security measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the international gathering.
The conference is being held at a hotel in Puri under heightened security, with comprehensive CCTV surveillance and increased police deployment across key locations. Additional arrangements have also been made in Konark, where delegates are scheduled to visit during their stay.
Officials from the district administration and police department have coordinated closely to provide secure transportation, accommodation, and event management facilities for the international delegates.
Boost for Odisha’s International Profile
The hosting of the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group Technical Meeting is expected to enhance Odisha’s international profile and strengthen its reputation as a model state in disaster management.
The conference also provides an opportunity for Odisha to share its best practices with global partners while learning from international experiences in disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation.
