Pathanamthitta, April 25: The ‘Youth Disaster Friend’ training program has been launched in Pathanamthitta, organized by the National Disaster Management Authority in collaboration with state and district disaster management authorities under the initiative ‘My Young India.’
The program was inaugurated by District Collector and Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority, S. Premakrishnan, at the SNDP Hall in Pathanamthitta Town. The event was presided over by Deputy Collector for Disaster Management, Suresh Babu.
A total of 150 selected volunteers from the district’s ‘My Young India’ initiative will receive training in various phases. This seven-day camp will cover topics such as emergency response techniques, coordination and operations in disaster-affected areas, preparation for rescue operations, basic life-saving assistance, and essential survival skills through scientific information and practical training.
Volunteers who successfully complete the training will be awarded certificates, identification cards, uniforms, and emergency kits. The aim is to create a volunteer force capable of providing immediate local responses during disasters.
The program also saw participation from Junior Superintendent of Disaster Management, Ajit Srinivasan, District Risk Analyst, Chandni P.C. Senan, Disaster Management Plan Coordinator, Annie Thomas Itikula, District Youth Officer, P. Sandeep Krishnan, and Master Trainer of ‘Youth Disaster Friend,’ V. Abhinav.
It is noteworthy that the Youth Disaster Friend initiative in Kerala is a community-based effort funded by the NDMA and implemented by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA). Its goal is to train youth to handle disasters such as floods and landslides. Launched in May 2025, this program collaborates with NCC, NSS, and NYKS to provide volunteers with training in search, rescue, and first aid.
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