Kiren Rijiju: Huge task of giving relief, rehab when disaster strikes

WASHINGTON: India today said it is facing large-scale disasters due to its geographical and social conditions and the challenge before the government is not only to provide quick relief but also to undertake long-term rehabilitation and reconstruction.

Addressing the opening Plenary of the 2nd World Reconstruction Conference, Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said there is an increased focus on mainstreaming disaster risk reduction into development planning in India.

Rijiju, who is leading the Indian delegation to the three-day conference organised by the World Bank, said when cyclone Phailin struck eastern coast of India, more than one million lives could be saved due to better preparedness.

"This also reflects strong commitment for advancing scientific and technological innovations for the betterment of our people," he said.

The Minister of State for Home said the country is on the threshold of creating an Indian Recovery Framework.

"The Framework would outline specific steps required to be taken for effective and efficient recovery along with financial commitment," he said.

Rijiju said the Recovery Framework has been a very important priority of the new government as a landmark for promoting sustainable recovery.

"It is our duty to carry out sustainable recovery by paying special attention to the needs of the most vulnerable community like elders, women and physically challenged," he said.

The Plenary ended on a strong note with a commitment by world leaders and technocrats on sustainable recovery efforts throughout the globe.