By Manish Patel, AIDMI, India

Nagaland’s journey toward disaster resilience reflects a strong partnership between national vision and state-level leadership. The collaboration between the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Government of Nagaland has helped translate disaster risk reduction (DRR) principles into concrete action on the ground, shaped by the state’s unique geography, climate risks, and socio-cultural context.

Nagaland is exposed to multiple hazards, including landslides, floods, forest fires, earthquakes, and emerging climate risks such as extreme rainfall variability and heat stress. Recognising that disasters are no longer episodic but systemic, NDMA-supported initiatives in Nagaland emphasise preparedness, prevention, and resilience rather than response alone. These efforts align with the Sendai Framework and India’s national disaster management priorities, while remaining rooted in local realities.

A central pillar of this work is the leadership of the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), under the Home Department, Government of Nagaland. With technical guidance from NDMA, the state has strengthened disaster management plans, standard operating procedures, and institutional coordination across departments. Investments in disaster management information systems, early warning dissemination, and decentralised relief mechanisms have improved both preparedness and response, particularly in remote and difficult terrain.

Capacity building is another major focus. Joint trainings, simulation exercises, and exposure to national tools—such as risk assessments and resilience scorecards—have enhanced the ability of state, district, and urban local bodies to anticipate and manage risk. Importantly, NDMA and the Nagaland Government have promoted partnerships with academic institutions, civil society, and the private sector to expand the reach and effectiveness of resilience initiatives.

These projects are guided by a clear rationale: safeguarding lives, livelihoods, infrastructure, and development gains. Disaster resilience in Nagaland is not viewed as a standalone sector but as an integral part of governance and development. By combining national expertise with state ownership and local knowledge, NDMA and the Nagaland Government are laying the foundation for a safer, climate-resilient, and future-ready Nagaland.