Gandhinagar: In a significant step toward experiential learning, the Department of General Studies organized a one-day Certificate Management Course on Disaster Management in association with the Gujarat Institute of Disaster Management (GIDM). Held on two dates — February 24 and 27 — the program catered to second-year BABBA students, offering them valuable insights into disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response strategies.
The course took place at the GIDM campus in Gandhinagar, providing a unique opportunity for students to gain real-world exposure to disaster management frameworks and on-ground implementation practices.
Purpose and Learning Objectives
The primary goal of the visit was to equip students with:
- A foundational understanding of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) policies.
- Insights into emergency preparedness and response mechanisms.
- Familiarity with India’s institutional disaster management framework.
About GIDM
The Gujarat Institute of Disaster Management, functioning under the Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA), is a premier institution committed to capacity building, research, and training in the field of disaster management.
Interactive Sessions and Skill-Based Training
The immersive program included a series of thematic sessions:
- Disaster Vulnerability in Gujarat and India: An overview of regional risks and the importance of proactive disaster planning.
- DRR Frameworks: Insight into disaster risk reduction policies at both national and state levels.
- The Disaster Management Act, 2005: Discussion on the legislative backbone of disaster governance and the role of State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs).
- CPR and First Aid Training: Hands-on guidance on life-saving emergency techniques.
- Fire Safety and Accident Management: Practical training using various fire extinguishers and simulated emergency response scenarios.
The sessions were coordinated by faculty members Dr. Anurag Kumar Srivastava and Dr. Vinod Varghese, who played an instrumental role in organizing the educational excursion.
A Transformative Experience
The visit to GIDM proved to be a transformative experience, blending academic learning with practical training. Students left with a clearer understanding of how disaster management institutions function and how policy translates into action during emergencies.
As the frequency and intensity of disasters continue to grow globally, such initiatives are vital in shaping responsible, informed citizens and future professionals ready to take on real-world challenges.