The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) organised a ceremonial launch, Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signing and release programme titled “Building Collaborative Resilience for the Future” at Guwahati today. Keshab Mahanta, Minister for Revenue and Disaster Management Department, formally launched the SMART AXOM App, the Flood Scenario and Downstream Impact Study Report for Ranganadi, Doyang and Kurichhu Hydro Projects and the Certificate Course on Disaster Management Communication, focusing on working professionals, journalists, among others.
He also announced, as part of the same, a special Orientation Course for media personnel to strengthen disaster communication and promote responsible, timely and factual reporting during emergencies. To strengthen institutional collaboration and build technical capacity, ASDMA signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with leading institutions. The partnership with Gauhati University focuses on academic collaboration and launching a certificate course on disaster communication and gender studies. The collaboration with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the National Institute of Hydrology (NIH) will result in integrated geo-environmental appraisals and urban flood studies in Barpeta district.
Meanwhile, the collaboration with the Public Works Department (Electrical) and Assam Engineering College (AEC) aims to promote research and innovation in lightning protection systems and resilient infrastructure design for schools and community buildings. Also, the Annual Activity Report (2020 to 2024) of ASDMA, summarising key achievements and interventions across the State, including advances in early warning systems, community-based preparedness and inter-departmental coordination, was released by the Minister.
The programme also included the felicitation of mentors and distribution of certificates to interns under the ASDMA Youth Internship Programme (AYIP) 2025, recognising their contributions to disaster risk research and field-based resilience initiatives. The event was attended by Ms L. Sweety Changsan, Additional Chief Secretary & CEO, ASDMA; Ms Meenakshi Das Nath, Additional CEO, ASDMA & Secretary, Revenue and Disaster Management Department; senior officials from the Government of Assam, NESAC, GSI, PWD and Faculty and officials from Gauhati University, AEC & NIH, along with mentors and AYIP interns and members from central and state disaster management agencies.
