What concrete outcomes does Odisha expect from this summit?Over three days, there will be intensive exchanges on tackling cyclones, floods, heat waves and other disasters among Brics nations and Indian states — more than 10 of which are participating. The focus is on sharing real experiences — preparedness, evacuation, ensuring zero casualties, and safeguarding all forms of life. Equally important is post-disaster rehabilitation — repositioning evacuated people, compensating crop losses, rebuilding damaged houses and restoring infrastructure. The idea is to learn from diverse contexts and strengthen collective response systems.How does this summit strengthen Odisha’s claim as a global model in disaster risk reduction?It is no longer a claim; it is internationally acknowledged that Odisha has built a robust disaster management system. The state has repeatedly handled severe cyclones with minimal or zero casualties. This credibility is one of the reasons the Brics DRR Technical Summit is being held in Puri. Delegates — top bureaucrats, experts and scientists from 10 countries — are witnessing Odisha’s model firsthand.The state will present detailed documentation, visuals and case studies of past disasters, focusing on evacuation strategies, coordination mechanisms and rehabilitation practices. Emphasis is on how the state restores livelihoods by compensating losses and rebuilding homes to ensure affected families return to pre-disaster conditions.Will a Puri declaration or joint roadmap emerge from the deliberations?A formal declaration is unlikely. The summit is anchored by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), with Odisha as co-host. The agenda has been set by Brics nations in consultation with NDMA. Odisha’s role is to showcase its experience and facilitate dialogue.However, demonstrations will form a key component. Personnel from Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and fire services will present field operations near Konark and another institute near Puri, demonstrating how they operate in extreme conditions to save lives.So, Odisha will primarily showcase its success stories?Yes, but not just that. While presenting its achievements, Odisha will also engage in mutual learning — understanding how other countries and states manage disasters, and identifying scope for improvement.Which practices Odisha planning to adopt from other countries and what innovations it intends to showcase?One major challenge is the unpredictability of disasters. Forecasts — whether by IMD or international agencies — do not always prove accurate. Odisha responds by preparing for worst-case scenarios: planning for higher-intensity cyclones and wider impact zones. This strategy ensures resilience even when a cyclone’s path or intensity deviates at the last moment.Climate variability has made natural events more erratic. Odisha adapts by expanding preparedness coverage and strengthening last-mile response mechanisms. This adaptive planning — anticipating deviations — is a key innovation the state will highlight.Urban flooding is emerging as a major issue. How is Odisha preparing given the increasing urbanisation?Urban population density is not yet a major constraint for Odisha, but the state is preparing in advance. With rapid urbanisation, disaster management systems are being recalibrated to handle urban floods and infrastructure stress. New risks are also emerging. Landslides, once uncommon, are becoming a concern. Odisha is studying mitigation strategies from north-eastern states where landslides are frequent. Heat waves are another growing threat due to rising global temperatures.What role does technology, including AI, play in Odisha’s disaster preparedness?Technology is being leveraged extensively. The Union home ministry supports the state with funding and advanced systems. Disaster management personnel are trained in the latest global technologies, enabling real-time monitoring, early warnings and efficient response.Final takeaway?The summit is an opportunity for Odisha to both lead and learn — showcasing a proven model while integrating global best practices to meet emerging challenges in disaster risk reduction.
