HPU scholar to assist NDMA in post-disaster planning for Uttarakhand

Himachal Pradesh University (HPU), Himalayan Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience (HIM-DR³) Deputy Director Dr Mahesh Sharma, has been nominated by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, as an expert for the proposed Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) in Uttarakhand.

The NDMA’s expert committee includes specialists from premier national institutions such as CSIR-Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), and the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee).

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Its mandate is to scientifically assess the impacts of recent disasters in Uttarakhand, covering human, social, economic, infrastructural, and ecological losses.

Dr Sharma’s selection highlights HPU’s growing contribution to disaster risk reduction and resilience at the national level. Representing HPU and HIM-DR³, he will bring his expertise in Himalayan hazards and risk management to the PDNA exercise, which aims to develop evidence-based strategies for recovery and resilience in the disaster-prone state.

Expressing delight over the nomination, HPU Vice-Chancellor Professor Mahavir Singh said: “It is a proud moment for Himachal Pradesh University that Dr Mahesh Sharma has been made part of this prestigious national-level expert committee. His inclusion reflects the trust placed in HPU’s expertise in disaster risk reduction and resilience.”

The PDNA framework is internationally recognised and widely used by governments in collaboration with global agencies to evaluate post-disaster damages and chart recovery plans.

Dr Sharma’s participation will not only strengthen HPU’s national presence but also reinforce its role in advancing disaster preparedness and resilience strategies for the Himalayan region.