Kargil Campus, University of Ladakh, in partnership with the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), has concluded a highly successful three-day training program from 15th to 17th June, 2023 on disaster tools

Kargil Campus, University of Ladakh, in partnership with the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), has concluded a highly successful three-day training program from 15th to 17th June, 2023 on disaster tools. The program, held at Kargil Campus, aimed to raise awareness among individuals from various departments in Kargil and Leh about the importance of capacity building in effectively mitigating the impact of disasters. The training program was inaugurated by the honorable Chief Guest, Sh. Santosh Sukhadeve (IAS), Deputy Commissioner of Kargil, who commended the initiative and pledged to collaborate with the newly established Department of Disaster Management in future endeavors. During the event, the esteemed Rector of Kargil Campus delivered an insightful welcome speech, highlighting the vital role of capacity building in reducing the impact of disasters. The Rector also shared the exciting news about the establishment of two departments, Environment and Geography, which have seen a significant number of enrollments, and the upcoming introduction of the Department of Disaster Management in the next academic session. These departments aim to address Ladakh-specific challenges through collaborative research. Throughout the program, participants were engaged in various sessions, workshops, and practical demonstrations on disaster management tools. Eminent experts from NIDM and other relevant institutions delivered informative lectures, sharing their expertise and providing valuable skills and knowledge to effectively tackle disasters. On the second day, guest speakers from diverse fields discussed disaster risk reduction strategies, planning, and programs. Ms. Fatima Amin from NIDM provided insights into the different phases of disaster management, vulnerability assessment, and pre and post-disaster management practices. Dr. Bardi, a consultant physician, shed light on the impact of COVID-19 as a biological disaster, emphasizing the importance of integrated disease surveillance. Er Basit Afzal, co-founder of "Acres of ice," discussed the melting of glaciers and climate adaptation strategies, while Inspector Iftikhar introduced disaster management cycles and conducted practical demonstrations on post-disaster activities and fire-related disasters. The final day featured sessions by Dr. Issa from the Department of Environmental Science, who discussed the linkage between disasters and climate change, and Dr. Mehboob Ali from the Department of Computer Science, who demonstrated the benefits of artificial intelligence in early warning systems for disaster mitigation in Ladakh. The program concluded with a valedictory function, where the Honorable Vice Chancellor of the University of Ladakh emphasized the importance of bringing more projects and workshops to the campus. He congratulated the Rector and the faculties of Kargil Campus for the successful completion of the training program. The three-day training program at Kargil Campus, University of Ladakh, has provided participants with valuable knowledge, practical insights, and the necessary skills to effectively respond to disasters. This collaborative initiative promises to contribute to building a resilient community in Ladakh.