SRINAGAR: To empower women at the grassroots level in disaster preparedness and response, a week-long Aapda Sakhi Training programme commenced today at the Headquarters of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) 1st Battalion, Srinagar.
Aapda Sakhi Training program was attended by Ramesh Kumar Angral, Director, Homeguards Kashmir; Imtiyaz Hussain Mir, Director Civil Defence & SDRF Kashmir; Masroor Ahmad Mir, Commandant, SDRF 1st Battalion and other senior civil and Police officers.
Aapda Sakhi Training program witnessed active participation of senior officers/officials and 78 women trainees drawn from various districts of Kashmir province viz. 20 Aapda Sakhi from Social Welfare, 20 Aapda Sakhi from Rural Development, and 20 from Health & Medical Education department, besides 18 from Civil Defence, wardens/volunteers are also taking part in the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Director of Homeguards emphasized the importance of integrating women into the disaster management framework. He stated, “Women are the backbone of our community, and their involvement as Aapda Sakhis will significantly enhance grassroot preparedness and resilience during any emergency.”
Addressing the officers, officials and Aapda Sakhi trainees, Director Civil Defence & SDRF Kashmir highlighted the critical role of Aapda Sakhis as community first responders and advocates for resilience in disaster-prone regions. He reiterated SDRF’s commitment to community outreach and capacity building.
Earlier during the inaugural session, dignitaries highlighted the critical role of Aapda Sakhis as community first responders and advocates for resilience in disaster-prone regions. They commended the enthusiasm of the trainees who had come from different corners of the Kashmir valley to participate in this specialized program.
Aapda Sakhis, under the broader ambit of community-based disaster risk reduction, are to be trained and empowered to respond effectively to emergencies such as earthquakes, floods, fires, and other natural or human-induced disasters.
The week-long training program will cover essential modules including basics of disaster preparedness, first aid and emergency response, fire safety and rescue operations, Risk communication and community mobilisation, and Mock drills and hands-on exercises.
The program is being conducted under the guidance of SDRF trainers and disaster management experts, ensuring a blend of theory and practical learning for the participants.
This inaugural event marked a significant step forward in building a resilient community through women-led disaster preparedness efforts across Jammu & Kashmir.
