The Family Planning Association of India (FPA India) Nagaland Branch marked the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) with an event for young people at Holy Family Higher Secondary School in Kohima. General Manager V Vincent Belho highlighted that IDDRR is celebrated globally on October 13 each year to emphasize the importance of reducing disaster risks and fostering resilience in communities worldwide.
Belho noted that Nagaland and the North-East region are particularly vulnerable to natural hazards such as landslides, earthquakes, and floods. He stressed the urgent need to build a disaster-resilient youth movement in response to climate change.
Emphasizing the role of young people in disaster risk reduction, Belho encouraged them to become change-makers through climate activism and community involvement. He urged students to engage in school programs, learn about evacuation procedures, basic first aid, and emergency response techniques. He also advocated for the responsible use of technology for early warnings and the sharing of verified information on social media during disasters.
Belho further discussed the importance of inclusive disaster risk reduction strategies, urging the involvement of marginalized communities, including women and people with disabilities, who often face greater challenges during emergencies.
During the event, Vingosanuo Khatso, Program Officer of FPA India, Nagaland Branch, reiterated that disaster risk reduction involves identifying and mitigating risks to ensure community safety and preparedness in the face of emergencies.
The students participated in a hands-on exercise focused on disaster preparedness, which included creating an emergency plan and assembling emergency kits. The program concluded with discussions on the importance of staying informed, practicing emergency drills, and actively engaging in community efforts.
Holy Family Higher Secondary School Principal Ashikho Boso expressed gratitude to the FPA team for organizing the program, underscoring the necessity of educating young people on disasters and emergency protocols to foster a resilient community amid the challenges posed by climate change.