Dharamshala (Kameshwar Sharma): The Aapda Rakshak Pilot Project Kangra is making significant progress in strengthening disaster preparedness across the district. Under the initiative, authorities have already trained 300 local volunteers against a target of 600 volunteers across 12 sub-divisions.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Shilpi Bekta shared this information while chairing a review meeting of the project on Monday. She said the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Kangra is implementing the program with technical support from partner agencies.
300 Volunteers Complete Training
The Aapda Rakshak Pilot Project Kangra aims to create trained community-based disaster response teams. These teams can provide immediate support during emergencies and natural disasters.
So far, officials have successfully trained 300 volunteers. Moreover, the training program continues to expand across different parts of the district.
The initiative focuses on preparing local residents to respond quickly and effectively during emergencies. As a result, communities can reduce the loss of life, property, and essential resources.
Training Conducted in Six Sub-Divisions
Authorities have already organized training sessions in Indora, Fatehpur, Nurpur, Jawali, Shahpur, and Dharamshala sub-divisions.
Furthermore, officials selected sensitive panchayat clusters for these programs to ensure better disaster preparedness in vulnerable areas.
The Aapda Rakshak Pilot Project Kangra equips volunteers with practical skills and knowledge. Consequently, participants gain the confidence needed to respond during emergency situations.
Volunteers Learn Essential Disaster Management Skills
During the training sessions, experts teach volunteers about disaster risks and emergency preparedness.
Participants learn how to identify local risks and available resources. In addition, trainers explain basic safety measures and community-level preparedness strategies.
Volunteers also receive practical instruction in search and rescue operations. Moreover, they learn first aid techniques, emergency response procedures, and community coordination methods.
These skills enable trained volunteers to act quickly during disasters. Therefore, they can provide immediate assistance before professional rescue teams arrive.
Remaining Sub-Divisions to Receive Training Soon
Officials plan to conduct training programs in the remaining six sub-divisions over the coming weeks.
These include Dehra, Jawalamukhi, Dhira, Jai Singhpur, Palampur, and Multhan. Furthermore, authorities will form dedicated disaster management teams in these areas.
Once completed, the Aapda Rakshak Pilot Project Kangra will have trained 600 volunteers across the district. As a result, Kangra will have a stronger network of community-based disaster responders.
Certificates Distributed to Trained Volunteers
During the review meeting, Additional Deputy Commissioner Shilpi Bekta distributed certificates to trained volunteers.
She appreciated their commitment and contribution to disaster preparedness efforts. Moreover, she encouraged them to use their training for the benefit of local communities.
According to officials, trained volunteers will play a vital role in strengthening emergency response systems at the grassroots level.
Strengthening Community Resilience
The Aapda Rakshak Pilot Project Kangra represents an important step toward building disaster-resilient communities. Through volunteer training, the initiative empowers local residents to respond effectively during emergencies.
Furthermore, the project promotes community participation in disaster management. Consequently, villages and panchayats become better prepared for natural disasters and unforeseen emergencies.
The meeting was attended by District Emergency Operations Centre Coordinator Robin Kumar, Training and Capacity Building Coordinator Kuldeep Singh, District Inter-Agency Group Coordinator Harjit Bhullar, the project implementation coordinator, and other officials.
Conclusion
The Aapda Rakshak Pilot Project Kangra continues to strengthen disaster preparedness across the district. With 300 volunteers already trained and more programs scheduled, the initiative is creating a strong foundation for community-based disaster response.
As training expands to all 12 sub-divisions, Kangra is moving closer to developing a well-prepared volunteer network capable of responding swiftly and effectively during emergencies.
Key Highlights of the news:
- The Aapda Rakshak Pilot Project Kangra has already trained 300 volunteers out of a target of 600 across 12 sub-divisions.
- The training program is being conducted by the District Disaster Management Authority Kangra with technical and implementation support from partner agencies.
- Volunteers are receiving practical training in search and rescue, first aid, disaster preparedness, and emergency response.
- Training programs have already been completed in six sub-divisions, including Dharamshala, Nurpur, Jawali, Shahpur, Fatehpur, and Indora.
- The remaining six sub-divisions will receive training in the coming weeks to strengthen community-level disaster response capabilities.
