The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), and CSIR–National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR–NIScPR) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a collaborative framework for academic programmes, capacity building, policy research, and communication in Disaster Management and Risk Reduction (DMRR).

The partnership aims to integrate science, technology and policy to build a disaster resilient India through structured academic initiatives, interdisciplinary research, and robust public engagement.

Key Highlights of the MoU:

• Launch of a PhD Programme in Disaster Management under AcSIR at CSIR-NIScPR with the support of NDMA.
• Joint research and policy studies, including science communication and capacity-building initiatives in DMRR.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Dinesh Kumar Aswal, Member, NDMA highlighted NDMA’s vision of integrating science with societal preparedness for DMRR:

“In line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Nine-Point Agenda on Disaster Risk Reduction, we are committed to developing a strong network of academic institutes that will work collaboratively on disaster-related research and academic programmes. We must fully utilise the transformative potential of communication channels to enhance early warning systems, risk communication, and community outreach. Equally important is our resolve to learn from every disaster through systematic post-event studies and documentation. Only by institutionalising this culture of continuous learning can we strengthen preparedness, refine response mechanisms, and build a truly resilient nation. In this context, this MoU is a significant step toward fostering a strong bridge between scientists and policy professionals to address the complex and evolving challenges associated with disasters.”

Prof. Manoj Kumar Dhar, Director, AcSIR, emphasised the academic and research opportunities created through the collaboration:

“AcSIR has over 7,000 enrolled students and ranks among the top research institutions in India. Our research spans nearly all scientific domains except space sciences, and we strongly encourage interdisciplinary collaboration. This MoU opens new avenues for the students and researchers to develop innovative, research-based solutions to disaster management challenges. It will help nurture a new generation of experts dedicated to strengthening India’s disaster resilience framework towards Viksit Bharat 2047.”

Highlighting the role of science communication and policy research in DMRR, Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, emphasised:

“CSIR–NIScPR is a unique institution that publishes 15 research journals, leads national initiatives in science communication, and engages in evidence-based policy research. Partnering with NDMA and AcSIR will enable us to integrate scientific knowledge into policy and public awareness frameworks for disaster management. Through this collaboration, NIScPR will provide a vibrant platform for policy research and capacity-building efforts while advancing science communication for disaster preparedness. By aligning rigorous scientific inquiry with policymaking, we aim to support development of solutions that are scientifically robust and socially responsive, thereby reinforcing the nation’s disaster resilience framework.”

NDMA, the apex body for disaster management policies under the Ministry of Home Affairs, will provide strategic direction and domain expertise. AcSIR, a premier research university will anchor academic programmes and research initiatives. CSIR–NIScPR will host the academic programs and drive policy research and public engagement on DMRR. This tripartite collaboration represents a significant step toward embedding scientific research, science communication, and evidence-based policymaking into India’s disaster management ecosystem.

 

 

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