Patna: National and the state disaster management authorities have outlined an ambitious roadmap to move the disaster management strategy beyond relief-centric responses to a preparedness-driven model, combining technology, community participation and institutional coordination. The plan was presented during a high-level meeting between the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority (BSDMA) and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Monday.
From response to readiness
Officials said the state’s approach is evolving into a comprehensive framework focused on early preparedness, risk reduction, public awareness and capacity building. The strategy aims to strengthen response systems from the state level down to panchayat and village tiers, ensuring quicker action, efficient resource use and reduced loss of life during disasters.
The meeting, chaired by BSDMA vice-chairman Udaykant, reviewed ongoing initiatives and future plans, with participation from senior officials across disaster management, administration and technical sectors.
Community at the centre
A key pillar of the roadmap is community engagement. Authorities emphasised expanding training programmes in riverine and flood-prone areas, including first aid, CPR and rescue techniques for local youth, women and volunteers.
The state is also scaling up its “safe village” concept, disaster awareness parks and training centres, while integrating school-based safety education, mock drills and behavioural change programmes to equip children with life-saving skills.
Existing grassroots networks — including disaster volunteers, Jeevika groups, teachers and students — are being leveraged to build a broad social safety net.
Tackling drowning risks
NDMA secretary Manish Bhardwaj announced that a “Ganga Prahari Aapda Mitra” scheme will be launched in Bihar to address drowning incidents. The initiative will train residents of riverbank communities in swimming, diving and rescue operations, creating a pool of local responders capable of immediate action during emergencies.
Technology and data-driven systems
The roadmap places strong emphasis on technology integration. Bihar governmentis developing unified systems for weather forecasting, flood warnings and information dissemination, in collaboration with institutions such as ISRO, IITs, IISc and TCS.
Officials highlighted the use of mobile alerts, data-driven decision-making and machine learning-based solutions to improve early warning and response efficiency.
Strengthening institutions
The meeting also reviewed the organisational structure and operational readiness of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), with discussions on further strengthening its capacity in view of rising disaster risks.
Key focus areas included improving the Incident Response System (IRS), expanding trained boat volunteers for flood response, promoting the use of the “Sachet” app for early warnings, and ensuring effective utilisation of the India Disaster Resource Network (IDRN).
Discussions also covered cyber security, safety of women and the children during disasters, boat operation safety and reliable information dissemination.
A model for the country
Officials underlined that Bihar’s approach seeks to go beyond government-led mechanisms by integrating SDRF, NDRF, police, health services, local administration and communities into a coordinated framework.
Chairing the meeting, Udaykant directed departments to ensure better coordination and faster implementation to make the disaster management system more responsive and effective.
The state aims to position its evolving disaster management framework as a model not just for Bihar, but for the rest of the country — one where preparedness, rather than reaction, defines resilience.
