Union FM Sitharaman Lauds Odisha’s Disaster Preparedness, Terms it a ‘Global Success Story’

Bhubaneswar: Union finance minister Nirmal Sitharaman has lauded Odisha’s disaster preparedness and termed it as a ‘global success story’.

Referring to a research article published by Observer Research Foundation (ORF)  in www.orfonline.org, Sitharaman said,“Post Phailin, the UN had recognised Odisha’s preparedness as a ‘global success story’ and made plans to use it as a model for other cities.”

“Post Phailin, the UN had recognised Odisha’s preparedness as a ‘global success story’ and made plans to use it as a model for other cities.”

Good read. Well done Orissa. https://t.co/MAwJwtmJXn

— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) September 5, 2020

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik who is leading from the front in managing any disaster in the State, be it cyclone  ‘Amphan’ or ‘Hudhud’ or ‘Phailin’ was quick to respond her.

Thanking Sitharaman, Patnaik in his twitter handle writes  “Thank you @nsitharaman ji for endorsing #Odisha’s ability to manage disasters through the unique model of community participation. Instilling local ownership, strive for #ZeroCasualty & addressing needs of most vulnerable form the core of #OdishaModel.”

The article stated that one of the central themes of the state’s disaster management plan states is community based disaster preparedness and it is the key to effective disaster management.This is because during any disaster, communities are always the worst affected and the first to respond.

Community participation in the process of disaster management therefore ensures local ownership, addresses local needs and promotes a culture of mutual help to prevent and minimize damage, the report said.