Indian Army leads multi-agency disaster preparedness exercise in Rajouri ahead of monsoon

With the monsoon season approaching, the Indian Army joined hands with civil and disaster response agencies on Friday to conduct a large-scale flood preparedness exercise in Rajouri’s Naushera sector, testing emergency response plans and rescue capabilities in realistic disaster scenarios.

The exercise brought together the Indian Army, civil administration, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Jammu & Kashmir Police, Health Services, Civil Defence and other stakeholder agencies on a common platform to validate contingency plans, review response mechanisms and strengthen coordination for disaster management and humanitarian assistance.

Advertisement

The exercise was designed to simulate realistic flood and emergency scenarios in vulnerable and low-lying areas along the Tawi River. It commenced with a Joint Table-Top Exercise, wherein participating agencies reviewed disaster management plans, Standard Operating Procedures, resource mobilisation protocols and inter-agency coordination mechanisms. Scenario-based discussions and war-gaming enabled detailed deliberations on effective response during emergencies.

A major highlight of the exercise was the joint flood rescue and evacuation demonstration conducted on the Tawi River. The demonstration showcased coordinated search and rescue operations, casualty evacuation procedures, boat-based rescue missions, rope-assisted river crossing techniques and safe evacuation of affected civilians to designated relief camps. Special emphasis was laid on the rescue and care of vulnerable groups, including women, children and senior citizens.

The exercise also included static displays of specialised disaster relief equipment, logistics support resources, drone-enabled surveillance systems and advanced communication technologies for real-time situational awareness. A Medical and Relief Camp Demonstration featured the establishment of an Advanced Dressing Station, deployment of a Mobile Medical Team, medical evacuation drills and relief camp management procedures.

Senior military officers, representatives of the District Administrations of Rajouri and Poonch, officials from NDRF, SDRF, Jammu & Kashmir Police and various line departments witnessed the exercise. Sarpanches, Village Defence Guards and local residents also participated, highlighting the importance of community involvement in disaster preparedness.

The successful conduct of Exercise HIFAZAT reaffirmed the collective commitment of all participating agencies towards strengthening disaster response capabilities, promoting interoperability and ensuring timely assistance during natural calamities. The initiative reflects the Indian Army’s continued commitment to supporting civil authorities, enhancing disaster resilience and ensuring the safety and well-being of the local population.