The National Child Development Council (NCDC) core committee convened an online meeting to discuss the importance of disaster preparedness and preventive measures during natural calamities such as cyclones, floods, and storms. The session was chaired by senior members of the Council, who focused on raising awareness, improving government coordination, and educating the public on safety precautions.
NCDC core committee member Anandi began the discussion, and highlighted the ongoing cyclonic conditions in Tamil Nadu and emphasized the urgent need for public awareness and precautionary action before such calamities strike. “If the people are informed early and take take precautions, many losses can be avoided while it could even save lives,” she said.
The committee agreed that rather than focusing on a single regional event, the resolution should address natural calamities in general. Members stressed that early prediction systems, technological advancement, and effective communication between authorities and citizens are essential in minimizing damage.
The key points which were discussed by the NCDC core committee were: Strengthening disaster prediction technology and early warning systems, improving public awareness campaigns to encourage people to stay indoors and secure their homes during severe weather, Establishing strict construction protocols in cyclone-prone and flood-prone areas to prevent property loss and Educating people on disaster response and self protection.
Committee member Bindu shared insights based on recent experiences in Kerala, noting that delayed communication from local authorities often leads to unnecessary loss of life. “If alerts are passed on in time, people can safeguard themselves by shifting to safer areas,” she said, urging for stronger coordination between the Meteorological Department and local administrations.
Radha from the NCDC emphasized the importance of public cooperation and adherence to safety warnings, saying that negligence often worsens the impact of disasters. She also pointed out that disaster education should not be limited to cyclones but extended to include earthquakes, landslides, and floods.
Adding to the discussion, NCDC Master Trainer Baba Alexander stressed the need for modernizing India’s disaster management system, citing Japan as an example of effective disaster preparedness. “India has varied landscapes, but our disaster management is not yet technologically advanced. Training individuals and introducing disaster management in school syllabuses can make a big difference,” he said.
Members also proposed including swimming and basic rescue training in school curriculums for students living near rivers or coastal areas. This, they noted, could help reduce casualties during floods or similar emergencies.
