Agartala, July 9, 2025: In preparation for a large-scale disaster management drill scheduled across approximately 60 locations in Tripura today, the Tripura Disaster Management Authority (TDMA) yesterday conducted a Tabletop Exercise at Conference Hall No. 2 of the State Secretariat.
The primary objective of the exercise was to ensure proper coordination among all agencies involved in disaster response. Emphasis was laid on implementing the directives of the Chief Minister, Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, especially for managing emergency situations during the monsoon season.
Chief Secretary J. K. Sinha, Revenue Secretary Brajesh Pandey, and Secretaries from the PWD and Health Departments including Kiran Gitte were present during the exercise. Representatives from the Army, Assam Rifles, BSF, CRPF, NDRF, SDRF, and officials from various State and Central government departments involved in disaster response also participated. District Magistrates and Collectors joined the session virtually via video conferencing.
In his opening remarks, Chief Secretary J. K. Sinha stressed the importance of such simulations not merely to identify shortcomings but to ensure that agencies perform their roles effectively during actual disasters.
District Magistrates outlined key preparedness measures to be taken by their respective administrations during disaster situations. The session also emphasized the need for enhanced coordination between armed forces, paramilitary units, and NGOs.
The meeting was led by retired Major General Sudhir Bahl, Chief Consultant of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), who reviewed potential flood and landslide scenarios and assessed the readiness of participants.
Lt. Gen. Syed Ata Hasnain, Member of NDMA, also participated in the session via video conferencing from New Delhi. He praised the Tripura Government for organizing such a well-structured preparedness exercise and advised the authorities to continue maintaining high levels of readiness. He also underscored the importance of implementing the 10-point agenda announced by the Prime Minister for disaster risk reduction.
On 9 July, statewide mock drill will focus on responding to floods and landslides, with special emphasis on the evacuation of residents from vulnerable zones.
Revenue Secretary urged citizens not to panic and requested public cooperation to ensure the success of the drill. In an official press release, he emphasized the importance of collective effort in building a resilient disaster response framework in the state.
