Press Release

Press Release from PPHF, Gyalshing

Information & Public Relations Department

Date: 16-Feb-2026
Torrent Training Initiative on Earthquake, Flood Control and Landslide Management Conducted at Maneybong
Gyalshing, February 16:The People to People Health Foundation (PPHF), under the HRDP–HDFC Bank Parivartan collaboration and in coordination with the 72nd Battalion, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), successfully conducted a Torrent Training Initiative on Flood Control, Earthquake and Landslide Management at Government Senior Secondary School, Uttarey, under 22 Maneybong GPU, Maneybong, Gyalshing District.
The programme was graced by Shri Bhim Kumar Limboo, Panchayat President, as Chief Guest, accompanied by Smt Meena Kumari Rai, Panchayat Vice President; Shri Narayan Prasad Subba and Shri Durga Prasad Gurung, Panchayat Members; and Ms Stella Chettri, JR VAA (22 Maneybong GPU). The event was also attended by the School Principal, Smt Moni Kumari Subba; Shri Dipen Chettri, Supervisor – Disaster Management (22 Maneybong GPU); along with teachers, students, and members of the local community.
The primary objective of the programme was to enhance awareness and preparedness among students and community members regarding disaster response and life-saving measures. The sessions covered rescue procedures during landslides, earthquakes, floods, and accidental falls into deep gorges. Practical demonstrations were conducted on personal safety, rescue techniques, basic first aid, CPR, and the safe transfer of injured persons to hospitals for advanced medical care.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest highlighted the critical importance of disaster preparedness and community awareness, particularly in regions prone to natural hazards such as landslides, floods, and earthquakes. He stated that such training initiatives play a vital role in equipping students and local residents with essential knowledge and practical skills to respond effectively during emergencies.
He further emphasised that timely preparedness, coordinated community efforts, and awareness of life-saving techniques can significantly reduce loss of life and property during disasters. Highlighting the need for regular mock drills and capacity-building programmes, he encouraged all participants to remain alert, proactive, and resilient, especially during the monsoon season and other high-risk periods.
The Chief Guest also appreciated the collaborative efforts of PPHF, HDFC Bank Parivartan, and the 72nd Bn SSB in conducting the programme and expressed hope that such initiatives would continue to strengthen disaster management readiness at the grassroots level.
Representing PPHF, Shri Samar Das and Shri Ankit Kumar, Assistant Programme Managers, were present to support and facilitate the initiative. The training was further strengthened by the active involvement of Shri Suresh Chand, Inspector (72 Bn SSB), along with his Disaster Management team, who played a significant role in conducting demonstrations and guiding participants.
Key Disaster Management Awareness Components Covered
• Crop management and appropriate crop selection
• Water source management
• Identification of alternate water sources
• Identification of landslide-prone zones/areas
• Landslide prevention planning for vulnerable locations
Pre-Disaster Preparedness Measures
• Selection of plants and plantation practices to prevent soil erosion
• Availability of essential commodities, medicines, common medicines, and first-aid kits at household and village levels
• Ensuring power backup facilities and availability of torches
• Alerting local shopkeepers to maintain adequate grocery stocks
• Awareness and skill-building among youth, students, and community members on pre- and post-rescue management based on the 3H approach (Head, Heart, and Hands).
The programme concluded with interactive demonstrations and enthusiastic participation from students and local residents, strengthening community-level capacity for effective disaster management and emergency response.