In a major step towards strengthening Tripura’s disaster management capabilities, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Monday launched a series of initiatives aimed at integrating cutting-edge technology with grassroots-level preparedness.

Speaking at a high-level event organized at the State Secretariat's Conference Hall, Dr. Saha emphasized the importance of adopting modern tools and systems to reduce the impact of natural calamities.

We are living in an age dominated by artificial intelligence and smart systems—these must be harnessed to protect lives and property during disasters, he said.

The Chief Minister officially released the State Disaster Management Plan for 2024–25 during the ceremony.

He also inaugurated a host of new projects and platforms, including: A Technology Demonstration Unit at Hapania, built at a cost of Rs. 50 lakh, where volunteers will be trained to serve as first responders, the launch of the Civil Defence Training Scheme, under which 2,880 volunteers will receive structured training in disaster response, installation of 26 Automated Weather Stations and rain gauges across the state to improve real-time weather data collection and forecasting, introduction of a Disaster Management Equipment Verification Portal to monitor rescue gear across various administrative units in real time and launch of the Change of Land Use (Diversion) Portal, aimed at streamlining land use approvals to promote transparency and investment.

Dr. Saha underscored the importance of proactive planning, citing past disasters such as Cyclones Sitrang, Mocha, Remal, and the severe floods of 2018 and 2024 as stark reminders of the need for constant vigilance and system upgrades.

Preparedness isn’t optional—it’s a necessity, he said, urging officials to focus on pre-disaster strategies such as relief camp management and infrastructure readiness.

The Chief Minister also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for selecting Tripura under the Civil Defence Training Scheme, which he called a crucial move for building community resilience.

Looking ahead, Dr. Saha announced that a Doppler Weather Radar Station is being planned for Belonia, which will significantly boost the state's forecasting capabilities.

Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha, in his address, called the newly launched disaster plan “a dynamic blueprint of Tripura’s collective vision and technological advancement.”

Senior officials including DGP Anurag, PCCF R.K. Shyaml, and Revenue Secretary Brijesh Pandey were present, along with secretaries from multiple departments, district magistrates, and other senior administrators.

With these new initiatives, Tripura is aiming to set a benchmark for tech-enabled disaster resilience in the North Eastern region.