A two-day State-Level Workshop on “Climate Change and disaster Risk Resilience: Himalayan Future-Lessons, Gaps, and Policy Pathways for Himachal Pradesh” concluded today at the Dr. Manmohan Singh Himachal Pradesh Institute of Public Administration (MSHIPA) Shimla. Revenue, Horticulture, Tribal Development Minister Jagat Singh Negi was the chief guest on the occasion.
The two days workshop was organized in collaboration with the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA). The Minister in his address, highlighted the growing impact of climate change on Himalayan states, particularly on sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, infrastructure and livelihoods.
He emphasized the state government’s efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness, early warning systems and resilient infrastructure to address increasing climate and disaster risks. He stated that the Government of Himachal Pradesh was making sustained efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness, improve early warning systems and develop resilient infrastructure to cope with the increasing risks posed by climate change and natural disasters.
D.C. Rana Special Secretary Revenue stressed the need for stronger institutional preparedness, improved inter-departmental coordination and scientific approaches to disaster risk reduction. The workshop featured thematic sessions on climate change adaptation, disaster risk assessment, early warning systems and resilient infrastructure in Himalayan regions.
Experts from national and state institutions including National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) India Meteorological Department (IMD) Geological Survey of India (GSI) National Institute of Hydrology (NIH) Roorkee and the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) delivered presentations on disaster risk reduction, climate resilience, hazard monitoring, and infrastructure safety in Himalayan regions.
Discussions focused on lessons from recent disasters in Himachal Pradesh, particularly the events of 2023 and 2025. Experts highlighted the importance of integrated risk assessment, resilient reconstruction and improved preparedness, drawing on findings from Post Disaster Needs Assessments conducted in the state.
The workshop concluded with a valedictory address by K. K. Pant, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue), Government of Himachal Pradesh, who stressed the importance of scientific planning, institutional coordination, and community participation in building climate and disaster resilience in Himalayan states like Himachal Pradesh.
The event was also attended by Rupali Thakur, Director, MSHIPA, along with policymakers, experts, researchers, and students from institutions including Himachal Pradesh University and Punjab University.