SHIMLA -6^th January, 2025-Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla emphasized the critical role of the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Response Force (HP-SDRF) in mitigating the impact of natural disasters during its Foundation Day celebrations and the concluding ceremony of Himachal disaster preparedness month at Raj Bhavan, here today. He lauded the HP-SDRF for its outstanding efforts, societal engagement and contribution towards building resilience in the State.

While congratulating HP-SDRF on its Foundation Day, the Governor acknowledged the economic and human costs of disasters at the national level. "India incurs an estimated annual economic loss of rupees 55,000 crores due to disasters. The National Disaster Management Authority, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, has helped states to reduce economic losses and save precious lives,” he remarked.

Shri Shukla said that the geographical and climatic conditions of Himachal make it highly prone to disasters such as landslides, heavy snowfall, and earthquakes. Referring to the severe floods and landslides of 2023, the Governor underlined the necessity of a robust disaster management system. He highlighted SDRF’s role since its establishment on 6 January, 2020, in safeguarding citizens and responding effectively to the natural calamities.

The Governor praised the force for conducting 148 search and rescue missions, saving 302 lives, safely evacuating over 150 individuals and recovering the bodies of 117 victims. Remarkable operations included rescuing two stranded U.S. citizens at Churdhar in Sirmaur district, rescue efforts during the Shrikhand Mahadev and Manimahesh pilgrimages, and interventions at Nagwain in Mandi district.

He also emphasized the HP-SDRF's community outreach initiatives aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness. He urged for continuous expansion of training programmes to ensure that all citizens are well-equipped to respond to emergencies. He commended SDRF for integrating advanced tools such as drones into disaster response operations and for the specialized training imparted to its personnel in areas like deep-water diving, mountaineering, and medical first response. He stressed that these advancements are vital for positioning Himachal Pradesh as a model state in disaster management.

“The selflessness and courage exhibited by the HP-SDRF personnel and volunteers in protecting lives and property deserve immense respect. They are true heroes who risk their lives to save others,” he stated.

The Governor honoured nine volunteers for their exemplary contributions during disaster management. It included Capt. NPS Bhullar, Zonal In-charge of Shimla Zone, Sant Nirankari Charitable Foundation (SNCF), Pritpal Singh Mattu, Chairman, Baba Saheb Ambedkar Welfare Society, Harjeet Bhullar, Programme Director, EduCARE Dharamshala, Doers Navneet Yadav (Programme Director), Mahunag Diving Association, Sunder Nagar, Dr. Uday Bhushan Sharma, MBBS, Resident AIMSS Chamiyana, Rakesh Kumar, village Rajvan of Mandi District, Vijay Kumar, village Rajvan of Mandi District and Chappe Ram Negi Negi's Himalayan Adventure Search & Rescue Team, Bhunter District Kullu.

He also released HP-SDRF’s annual report and appreciated its remarkable work under challenging conditions.

Additional Director General of Police Satwant Atwal Trivedi highlighted activities of the HP-SDRF, asserting that the force is a symbol of hope and courage. She said that the month-long Himachal disaster preparedness month witnessed a comprehensive baseline survey, community outreach, and volunteer registration programmes. She said that over 2,500 individuals were trained across Shimla, Mandi, and Dharamshala, and 650 volunteers were registered to assist during disasters.

Superintendent of Police Arjit Sen, presented a detailed overview of HP-SDRF's operations through power point presentation.

Deputy Commandant General, Home Guards, Civil Defence and Fire Services Arvind Parashar proposed a vote of thanks.

Mayor, Municipal Corporation, Shimla Surinder Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, Additional Chief Secretary Onkar Chand Sharma, Secretary to Governor Chander Prakash Verma, Commandant, National Disaster Response Force Baljinder Singh and representatives of various social organizations were also present on the occasion.