NSDMA strengthens emergency communication capabilities

DIMAPUR — In a significant move towards enhancing disaster preparedness and emergency communication capabilities, the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) and Open-Source Classes for Amateur Radio India (OSCAR India) conducted a four-day comprehensive workshop from June 3 to the 6th.

The initiative was aimed at equipping NSDMA officials with the skills needed to establish reliable communication channels during emergencies using amateur radio, stated an update from NSDMA.

The workshop underscored the importance of amateur radio as a vital tool in disaster management, especially when conventional communication networks fail. The participants received hands-on training in building and operating Yagi-Uda antennas, a crucial component for effective amateur radio communication.

Under the expert guidance of OSCAR India, officials were trained to design and develop antennas themselves, fostering self-reliance and innovation essential for setting up emergency communication networks during critical situations.

Onkar Nath Yadav, deputy wireless adviser to the Government of India and a passionate amateur radio enthusiast with the callsign VU3OOO, attended the workshop.

It stated that his lecture titled “Ham Radio: A communication lifeline during disaster” provided valuable insights into the pivotal role of Amateur Radio in maintaining communication during disasters. He emphasised that HAM Radio serves as a powerful tool when all other communication systems are compromised, underscoring its critical importance in emergency preparedness.

Additionally, Yadav provided practical training on designing and developing Yagi-Uda antennas, which were then built and tested by NSDMA officials to ensure functionality.

The workshop also featured participation of OSCAR India team under the All India School of Management and Information Technology (AISMIT).

The collaboration was aimed at boosting the officials’ understanding and practical skills, ensuring they are well-prepared to establish effective communication links and networks during emergencies.

During the practical sessions, NSDMA officials were divided into two groups wherein one group was stationed at the secretariat office with their self-designed antenna system, while the other group went to the emergency operation centre with the Yagi antenna they developed.

Report stated that the successful communication between the two groups confirmed the antennas’ effectiveness, ensuring the officials’ preparedness for real-life emergency scenarios.

It stated that the workshop marked a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts of NSDMA and OSCAR India. It added that by empowering officials with the knowledge and skills to build and operate antennas, the programme ensured that Nagaland is better equipped to handle emergencies, fostering a culture of homebrew technology and resilience in disaster management.

Zunheboto formulates plans for monsoon

The deputy commissioner and chairman of Zunheboto district disaster management authority (ZDDMA), Rahul Bhanudas Mali, has urged all concerned department to take stock on the available quantities of medicines and food-stock in the district to be utilised in case of disaster and to identify hazardous areas and sign up awareness boards in various locations for public safety.

He stated this during the monsoon preparedness-cum-ZDDMA first quarterly meeting held in his office on Friday. He highlighted the main purpose of the meeting, which was to formulate action plans by all concerned departments under Zunheboto district on disaster related matters and to be prepared for any impending disasters.

The DC further appealed to the citizens of the district to restrict activities in and around the river banks in order to mitigate any loss of lives and materials during the monsoon season.