Puri: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group (DRRG) technical meeting, here on Thursday, while calling for enhanced international and inter-state cooperation to address the growing challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters.
Welcoming delegates, experts and representatives from BRICS nations, the CM highlighted that the meeting’s theme, “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” reflects the urgent priorities of the international community in safeguarding lives, livelihoods and future generation through greater cooperations.
Majhi emphasized that disaster risk reduction is no longer a standalone sectoral concern but a cornerstone of sustainable development, economic stability and human security. He noted that climate change, rapid urbanisation and environmental degradation are increasing both the frequency and intensity of disasters across the world, demanding stronger preparedness and coordinated action.
The CM highlighted Odisha’s globally acknowledged disaster management model, built on the guiding principle of “Zero Casualty.” He stated that the state has consistently strengthened its disaster preparedness architecture through evidence-based planning, advanced early warning systems, resilient infrastructure, institutional capacity building and inclusive governance mechanisms.
Referring to Odisha’s vulnerability to cyclones, heatwaves, lightning strikes, coastal erosion and emerging climate-induced urban risks, Majhi stressed the need for continuous innovation and investment in resilience-building measures.
“Odisha’s journey demonstrates that the future challenges will require greater efforts, stronger partnerships and enhanced technological capabilities,” he said.
The CM acknowledged the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in placing disaster risk reduction at the centre of India’s development agenda. He noted that the Prime Minister’s Ten-Point Agenda for Disaster Risk Reduction provides a comprehensive framework focused on resilience, preparedness, technology adoption, risk-informed development and international cooperation.
Majhi said that the recently approved 160-kilometre Greenfield Coastal Highway from Rameswar to Paradeep via Konark, with an estimated investment of Rs. 8,301 crore, will significantly strengthen Odisha’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities.The project is expected to provide a robust alternative transportation corridor along Odisha’s cyclone-prone coastline, enabling faster mass evacuations during severe weather events, ensuring uninterrupted supply chains and facilitating rapid emergency response and relief operations.
The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of the BRICS platform in fostering collaboration among emerging economies on critical issues such as disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, resilient infrastructure and capacity building.He urged participating nations and experts to move beyond discussions and convert deliberations into concrete partnerships and actionable outcomes that benefit vulnerable populations across the world.
Majhi said, “Puri deliberations will have a landmark contribution to global disaster risk reduction efforts”.
Odisha’s Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said, “Today Odisha has a globally recognized governance model in disaster management”.
Among others, Member & Head of Department, National Disaster Management Authority Krishna S. Vatsa, Member from NDMA Ms. Rita Missal also spoke.
