International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction observed in Dhemaji

LAKHIMPUR: Restoring education, health and livelihood of the flood-affected communities in Dhemaji, Caritas India, a non-profit organization based in New Delhi, celebrated the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction in Latak Gaon Panchayat in the district on Tuesday.

Celebrated on October 13 every year, this day acknowledges the progress being made in the avenue of disaster risk reduction in the global platform. The programme focussed on strengthening local level capacities through demonstration on rescue techniques, sensitization on preparedness and safety tips in pre and post disaster situation. The sensitization programme, which was facilitated by the Caritas India programme team, also encouraged the community to participate in decision making and taking actions to reduce risk at the local level.

Caritas India is working in Dhemaji and Lakhimpur districts to rehabilitate the flood-affected communities. Following the devastating floods in July 2019, Caritas India has implemented its 'Women Led Comprehensive Flood Recovery Programme' in Latak GP of Bordoloni Block under Dhemaji. The programme is being implemented in line with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction emphasizing on the 'Build Back Better' approach in post disaster recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction.

The programme is designed to build risk resilient partnership between the community and local stakeholders through restoration of income generating initiatives, education facilities for children and nutrition support for young children and pregnant-lactating mothers. Till date, the programme has reached out to 250 marginalized women through livestock and yarn support, while 350 children and pregnant and lactating women have received culturally appropriate food supplement kits.

This year has been particularly difficult for children as they had to confront the challenges of COVID-19 pandemic along with the disastrous flood in the State. To help the children continue with their learning, Caritas India established child-friendly spaces across 10 villages to aid in their cognitive development along with physical and mental well-being. Till date, 250 children have been enrolled in these temporary structures and attend the bi-weekly sessions conducted by local volunteers. Additionally, five ICDS centres have also been refurbished with flood resistant structures. Caritas India's activities on disaster risk reduction in Dhemaji is being supported by HCL Foundation.