India to host international meet on disaster risk reduction

NEW DELHI, Oct 29:  Ministers responsible for disaster risk reduction in 61 countries will meet here early next month to share their best practices in handling various calamities and discuss how to deal with future emergencies together.

The Asian Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction (AMCDRR) 2016, to be held from November 3-5 in New Delhi, will set the direction for implementation of Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) in the Asia-Pacific region.

“It is a matter of immense pleasure that representatives of 61 countries are participating the meeting in disaster risk reduction. India will share its best practices before the global audience,” Home Minister Rajnath Singh told reporters here.

Sendai Framework is the first major agreement of the post-2015 development agenda and identifies targets and priority action areas towards reducing disaster risks.

The conference, to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is being organised by the government of India in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction.

An exhibition will also be held showcasing good practices in disaster risk management through the initiatives displayed by various governmental and non-governmental organisations as well as other stakeholders.

Visual material, publications, posters, multimedia and latest technological innovations showcasing India’s efforts at Disaster Risk Reduction, mitigation and preparedness will be displayed at the exhibition.

The exhibition will also be leveraged to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage, handloom and handicraft products to the international delegates from 60 Asian countries that are participating in the Conference.

Pakistan will not send its representative to the conference, amidst the ongoing hostilities with India. (PTI)