ASDMA Launches “Building Collaborative Resilience for the Future” Initiative in Guwahati

Guwahati: The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) thurseday organised a ceremonial launch, MoU signing, and release programme titled “Building Collaborative Resilience for the Future” in Guwahati.

Keshab Mahanta, Minister for Revenue and Disaster Management, launched several key initiatives, including the SMART AXOM App, the Flood Scenario and Downstream Impact Study Report for the Ranganadi, Doyang, and Kurichhu Hydro Projects, and a Certificate Course on Disaster Management Communication designed for professionals, journalists, and others.

The Minister also announced a special Orientation Course for media personnel to promote responsible, factual, and timely disaster reporting and to strengthen communication during emergencies.

To build stronger institutional and technical partnerships, ASDMA signed three MoUs with leading organisations:

• With Gauhati University for academic collaboration and a new certificate course on disaster communication and gender studies.
• With the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the National Institute of Hydrology (NIH) for joint geo-environmental and urban flood studies in Barpeta district.
• With the Public Works Department (Electrical) and Assam Engineering College (AEC) to promote research on lightning protection systems and resilient infrastructure for schools and community buildings.

The Minister also released the ASDMA Annual Activity Report (2020–2024), highlighting major achievements such as improvements in early warning systems, community preparedness, and inter-departmental coordination across the State.

The event also featured felicitation of mentors and certificate distribution to participants of the ASDMA Youth Internship Programme (AYIP) 2025, recognising their contributions to disaster research and field-based resilience efforts.

The programme was attended by L. Sweety Changsan, Additional Chief Secretary & CEO, ASDMA; Meenakshi Das Nath, Additional CEO, ASDMA & Secretary, Revenue and Disaster Management Department; and senior officials from the Government of Assam, NESAC, GSI, PWD, Gauhati University, AEC, and NIH, along with mentors, AYIP interns, and members of central and state disaster management agencies.