Agartala, August 4: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Monday underscored the importance of integrating advanced technology and artificial intelligence (AI) into disaster management systems to minimize post-disaster loss of lives and property. Speaking at the launch of the State Disaster Management Plan for the fiscal year 2024–25, the Chief Minister emphasized the urgent need to raise public awareness, train volunteers and officials, and adopt innovative tools for effective rescue and relief operations.
The official unveiling took place at Conference Hall No. 2 of the State Secretariat, where the Chief Minister inaugurated a series of initiatives under the Revenue Department. These included the virtual inauguration of a ₹50 lakh Technology Demonstration Unit at Hapania, Civil Defence Training Scheme, 26 Automated Weather Stations and rain gauges across the state, the Disaster Management Equipment Verification Portal, and the Change of Land Use (Diversion of Land) Portal.
In his address, the Chief Minister stated, “We are living in an era of technology and AI. It is imperative that we give top priority to their application in disaster preparedness and management.” Citing past disasters such as cyclones Sitrang (2022), Mocha (2023), and Remal (2024), along with devastating floods in 2018 and 2024, he stressed the importance of pre-disaster planning and preparedness.
He also pointed out the gaps that still exist in disaster response and emphasized the need to strengthen management of relief camps and upgrade rescue operations.
“This year’s disaster management plan aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary approach,” said Dr. Saha.
The Hapania Technology Demonstration Unit is set to train thousands of volunteers who will be the first responders during emergencies. Under the Civil Defence Training Scheme, 2,880 volunteers will be trained in disaster response, for which the Chief Minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Highlighting the importance of accurate weather forecasting, Dr. Saha announced the installation of 26 Automated Weather Stations and rain gauges, and revealed plans to establish a Doppler Weather Radar Station in Belonia. The newly launched Equipment Verification Portal will help track disaster response equipment available in districts, subdivisions, and TSR battalions, ensuring updated data on availability and condition of tools and machinery.
The Change of Land Use Portal, according to the Chief Minister, will simplify and bring transparency to land diversion approvals, making the process more business-friendly and efficient.
On the role of the media in disaster management, the Chief Minister remarked, “The media acts as a crucial bridge between the government and the public, ensuring dissemination of government initiatives. I hope it will also continue to play a key role in preventing the spread of rumors and panic during emergencies.”
