Strengthening Disaster Management through Academic Collaboration
The Ministry of Science & Technology has formalised a MoU among three key institutions: the NDMA, CSIR‑NIScPR, and the AcSIR. The agreement, announced on 12 March 2026 by Dr. Jitendra Singh, MoS (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology & Earth Sciences, seeks to create a robust academic and policy‑support framework for DMRR in India.
Key Developments
- Launch of a dedicated PhD programme in disaster management and risk reduction.
- Creation of India‑specific datasets, analytical tools, and digital knowledge platforms to link research with public preparedness.
- Introduction of certificate courses, short‑term training, expert lectures and policy dialogues for government officials, practitioners and academia.
- Alignment of the academic curriculum with the Prime Minister’s Agenda on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), overseen by a Joint Working Group led by the NDMA.
- Strengthening of science communication and community outreach to enhance disaster preparedness.
Important Facts
The MoU outlines that the NDMA, as the apex authority, will monitor and steer all academic, capacity‑building and training activities. The collaboration will also foster evidence‑based decision‑making