Pakyong, April 24 (IPR): The valedictory programme of a training on Artificial Intelligence for Disaster Management officials, organised by the District Disaster Management Authority, Pakyong, under the District Administrative Centre (DAC), Pakyong, was held at St Xavier’s School, Pakyong, today. The training was conducted from April 13 to April 21.
The programme was attended by State Relief Commissioner cum Secretary, Land Revenue & Disaster Management Department (LR&DM), Mr Rinzing Chewang Bhutia; District Collector, Pakyong, Mr Rohan Agawane; along with Director cum Special Secretary, SSDMA, LR&DM, Mr Prabhakar Rai; Director, SSDMA, LR&DM Mr Rajiv Roka and ADC, Pakyong, Mr Pulkit.
State Relief Commissioner cum Secretary, Land Revenue & Disaster Management Department, addressed the participants and commended the initiative of organising the training programme. He also expressed gratitude to the District Collector, Pakyong, for the initiative.
He stressed that disaster management experts must take ownership of their roles and responsibilities, noting that effective disaster management requires continuous learning, coordination and proactive action.
Referring to international examples, he pointed out how timely monitoring and early warning systems have helped minimise loss of life in disaster-prone areas. He emphasised that strengthening monitoring systems and preparedness measures is essential to mitigate risks.
Mr Bhutia further urged the participants to regularly practice and utilise the digital tools introduced during the training, stating that consistent use would enhance efficiency and preparedness. He also suggested periodic review and monitoring to ensure that the knowledge gained is effectively implemented.
He further encouraged replication of such training programmes in other districts and stressed the need for continuous learning, regular practice and effective utilisation of digital tools to strengthen disaster preparedness and response.
He concluded by stressing the importance of teamwork, coordination and sustained efforts in building a robust disaster management system.
The District Collector, Pakyong, provided an overview of the training and highlighted the potential of integrating various digital tools for disaster management. He stated that by combining information from different sources and platforms, officials can develop models to identify vulnerable areas within their jurisdiction.
He further noted that technologies such as drone-based monitoring can be utilised to validate field conditions, particularly in areas that are inaccessible during disasters.
He underlined that the integration of these tools can enhance predictive capabilities, reduce damage to property and help save lives. He described the training as a pilot project to demonstrate the potential of integrating digital tools for disaster management.
Resource person Mr Dinesh Dhungel, Founder of Inquisitive Mindspace Private Limited (IQM), presented an overview of the seven-day training, highlighting the modules covered and practical applications undertaken. The training focused on strengthening the capacity of officials by integrating AI into disaster management practices.
Key digital tools for hazard monitoring introduced during the programme included Google Earth Engine, NDVI (Normalised Difference Vegetation Index) mapping, ChatGPT and AI assistants, Global Forest Watch and NASA Worldview. These tools were demonstrated as part of a monitoring workflow tailored for disaster management in Sikkim, with emphasis on preparedness, response and mitigation, as well as improving efficiency in routine administrative functions.
The resource person also demonstrated the use of a modular, tangible drone for disaster management. The system enables surveillance and situational assessment in areas that are inaccessible during disasters. Equipped with attachable camera modules, the drone can be deployed to capture real-time visuals and support informed decision-making.
During the programme, participants further demonstrated practical applications of the training, including the generation of AI-based alert messages and the use of Google Earth Engine for hazard monitoring and analysis.
The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to the participants, and cash prizes were awarded to the top five performers.
Also present during the programme were DPO, Pakyong, Mr TR Chettri; AD, IT, Mr Nirnai Rai, along with officials from the IT Department, Pakyong.