Bihar Plans Roadmap for Women in Disaster Management and Relief

Patna: A roadmap to enhance women’s participation and safety in disaster management was the focus of a significant meeting held at the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority (BSDMA) auditorium. The event, chaired by BSDMA Vice Chair Dr. Udaykant, brought together key officials and experts, including Harjot Kaur Bamhara, Additional Chief Secretary of the Social Welfare Department and Managing Director of the Women and Child Development Corporation, who served as the chief guest.

The meeting aimed to integrate gender sensitivity into disaster response strategies. Dr. Udaykant highlighted ongoing initiatives by the Authority to empower women, including programs such as safe swimming, community volunteer training, and mason training. He lauded the impact of the Jeevika Didi training program, which has significantly bolstered disaster response skills among rural women.

Bamhara underscored the importance of addressing the specific needs of women during disasters, particularly in relief camps. She stressed the necessity of ensuring access to appropriate facilities, such as toilets, sanitary pads, and traditional attire, while advocating for prioritizing women in relief and compensation distribution.

The meeting featured inputs from women social workers and disaster management experts, who collectively emphasized the need for a comprehensive disaster management roadmap focusing on women. The proposed roadmap will ensure both their safety during crises and their active involvement in relief efforts.

Moderated by Mrs. Nivedita Jha, the event was attended by BSDMA officials, including Secretary Mohd. Waris Khan and Special Secretary Ashutosh Singh, along with numerous women social workers from across the state. The program concluded with stage coordination by Anand Vijeta, marking a collaborative step towards more inclusive disaster management in Bihar.