SHILLONG, July 11: In a move to strengthen grassroots disaster preparedness, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), West Khasi Hills, on Friday equipped 250 newly trained Yuva Aapda Mitra volunteers with Emergency Response Kits (ERKs) to enhance their ability to respond to emergencies and natural disasters.

The kits were distributed at the TRYSEM Hall in Nongstoin to volunteers who successfully completed training under the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme (YAMS), a National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)-sponsored initiative aimed at building a community-based disaster response network.

Deputy Commissioner and DDMA Chairperson Hema Nayak handed over the kits in the presence of District Disaster Management Officer D. Chyne and other officials.

In addition to the emergency kits, the volunteers received identity cards, training certificates and YAMS handbooks, formally inducting them into the district’s disaster response mechanism.
Addressing the volunteers, Nayak lauded their commitment to public service and urged them to remain prepared to assist the administration and emergency response agencies during floods, landslides, earthquakes and other disasters.

The programme also recognised outstanding performers during the training. Borisbok Nongsiej, Daiahun Lyngkhoi, Rishanbadskhem Sohshang and Allasbastar Dkhar secured first positions in their respective batches, while Lipston Diengngan, Seneyangzu R. Marak, Balaiied Pariong and Mebannangsan Puwein finished second. Ribashisha Lyngkhoi, Dhanborlin Syiemiong, Jenita Lyngkhoi and Bandalin Mawsymbai were awarded third place.

The Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme seeks to create a trained pool of community volunteers who can support rescue and relief operations, strengthening disaster preparedness and community resilience across West Khasi Hills.