Srinagar, Sept 19 (KNS): The Aapda Sakhi Training Programme was formally inaugurated today, 19-09-2025, at the Headquarters of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) 1st Battalion, Srinagar, with the active participation of senior officers/officials and 78 women trainees drawn from various districts of Kashmir province.
The chief guest of the event, Director Civil Defence & SDRF Kashmir, Imtiyaz Hussain Mir (IPS), presided over the function and addressed the officers, officials, and Aapda Sakhi trainees. He highlighted the critical role of Aapda Sakhis as community first responders and advocates for resilience in disaster-prone regions.
A total of 78 women trainees are taking part in the week-long program, including 20 Aapda Sakhis from the Social Welfare Department, 20 from Rural Development, 20 from Health & Medical Education, and 18 from Civil Defence wardens/volunteers.
The program, aimed at empowering women at the grassroots level in disaster preparedness and response, was graced by the presence of several prominent dignitaries, including:
Ramesh Kumar Angral (JKPS), Director, Homeguards Kashmir
Imtiyaz Hussain Mir (IPS), Director, Civil Defence & SDRF Kashmir
Masroor Ahmad Mir (JKPS), Commandant, SDRF 1st Battalion
Rafi Giri, SO to Commandant General, HG/CD & SDRF J&K (SP Rank)
Snober Jameel (JKAS), Deputy Secretary to the Government, DMRRR
During the inaugural session, the dignitaries highlighted the crucial role of Aapda Sakhis as first responders and advocates for resilience in disaster-prone regions. They commended the enthusiasm of the trainees who had come from different corners of the Kashmir valley to participate in this specialized program.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The Aapda Sakhi initiative, under the broader ambit of community-based disaster risk reduction, is designed to train and empower women to respond effectively to emergencies such as earthquakes, floods, fires, and other natural or human-induced disasters.
The week-long training will cover essential modules including:
Basics of disaster preparedness
First aid and emergency response
Fire safety and rescue operations
Risk communication and community mobilization
Mock drills and hands-on exercises
Speaking on the occasion, Director Homeguards, Ramesh Kumar Angral (JKPS), emphasized the importance of integrating women into the disaster management framework. He stated, “Women are the backbone of our community, and their involvement as Aapda Sakhis will significantly enhance grassroots preparedness and resilience during any emergency.”
Director SDRF, Imtiyaz Hussain Mir (IPS), and Commandant SDRF 1st Battalion, Masroor Ahmad Mir (JKPS), also addressed the gathering and reiterated SDRF’s commitment to community outreach and capacity building.
The presence of senior officers along with government representatives underscored the strong institutional support for this unique and impactful initiative.
The program is being conducted under the guidance of SDRF trainers and disaster management experts, ensuring a blend of theory and practical learning for the participants.
This inaugural event marked a significant step forward in building resilient communities through women-led disaster preparedness efforts across Jammu & Kashmir.(KNS)