DM&R Minister Attends Debriefing Meeting of ‘State Level Mock Exercise on Earthquake’

Aizawl, January 2026: A debriefing meeting of the ‘State Level Mock Exercise on Earthquake’, jointly organised by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Disaster Management & Rehabilitation (DM&R) Department, was held this evening at the Assembly Secretariat Annexe Conference Hall. The meeting was attended by DM&R Minister Prof. Lalnilawma.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Lalnilawma said it was encouraging that the mock exercise, designed to test and review response mechanisms in the event of an earthquake across Mizoram, was conducted successfully. He noted that the exercise’s success was the result of effective coordination among various state government departments, central government agencies, and voluntary organisations.

The Minister highlighted that according to the latest seismic zonation issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the entire North Eastern region of India falls under Seismic Zone VI, making preparedness for earthquakes extremely critical. He stressed that regular training and evaluation of response mechanisms are essential to minimise loss of life and property during such disasters.

Prof. Lalnilawma also pointed out the importance of inter-state coordination, stating that cooperation with neighbouring states during such initiatives is vital. He welcomed the participation of the Assam State Disaster Response Force in the mock exercise conducted in Kolasib district. Emphasising disaster preparedness, he underlined the need for robust Early Warning Systems, and for upgrading rescue and relief equipment with more advanced and efficient resources.

The debriefing meeting was chaired by Brig. Ravinder Gurung (Retd.), Senior Consultant (ME&IRS), NDMA, Government of India. District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) from all districts joined the meeting through video conferencing. DDMA Chairpersons and district-level head observers presented reports on the conduct of the mock exercise in their respective districts, lessons learned, identified gaps, and suggestions for improvement.

The observations and recommendations of Chief Observer Pu P.C. Lallawmsanga, IPS (Retd.), former Principal Secretary, DM&R, were also presented during the meeting.

Speaking on the occasion, Brig. Ravinder Gurung (Retd.) appreciated the commitment and seriousness shown by all participating agencies in carrying out their responsibilities. He described the exercise as one of the most effective mock drills and commended the strong coordination among central agencies, state departments, and voluntary organisations. He reiterated that earthquakes pose the greatest natural disaster risk to Mizoram and welcomed NDMA’s initiative in conducting such an important mock exercise.

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks by Pu Udit Prakash Rai, Commissioner & Secretary, DM&R Department, who formally closed the debriefing session.