Xavier University Students Visit OSDMA to Learn About Odisha’s Disaster Management Model

Bhubaneswar, 9 October 2026: Odisha’s disaster management model continues to serve as an important learning resource for students and researchers seeking to understand effective disaster preparedness and response. As part of an educational visit, a group of 40 students from Xavier University, Bhubaneswar, visited the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) to gain insights into the state’s disaster management journey, key initiatives and best practices.

During the visit, Dr. Kamal Lochan Mishra, Advisor to OSDMA, briefed the students on Odisha’s transformation in disaster management following the devastating Super Cyclone of 1999. He highlighted the state’s significant progress in strengthening early warning systems, disaster preparedness, timely evacuation, community participation and the integration of modern technology and data-driven approaches to disaster risk reduction.

Emphasising the importance of learning from past disasters and practical experiences, Dr. Mishra encouraged the students to explore disaster management through research, innovation and the application of emerging technologies. He also highlighted the need to strengthen knowledge and awareness to address evolving disaster risks and build resilient communities.

The visit provided the students with an opportunity to understand Odisha’s disaster management practices and the institutional and community-based measures that contribute to effective disaster preparedness and response. It also aimed to inspire young minds to engage in research, innovation and collaborative efforts towards building a safer and disaster-resilient society.