Awantipora, October 13: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) observed the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2025 by organizing a one-day workshop on the theme “Fund Resilience, Not Disasters.” The event was organized by the Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction (CDRR), IUST, in collaboration with the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, Government of India.
Dr. Afroz Ahmad, Member, National Green Tribunal (NGT), was the Chief Guest on the occasion. In his address, Dr. Ahmad emphasized the importance of extensive research and community awareness in disaster risk reduction. He noted that disasters become more devastating due to unsustainable human activities and short-term interests, and called for stronger laws and mass sensitization to ensure resilience and sustainable development.
In his presidential address, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to building a disaster-conscious and resilient society in J&K through capacity development across all segments of the community. Referring to this year’s International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction theme, he emphasized the need for proactive investment in preparedness and resilience rather than spending on disaster response. “At IUST, with the support of the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), we are working to strengthen the capacities of stakeholders and institutions to enhance disaster risk reduction across society,” he said.
Prof. A.H. Moon, Dean Academic Affairs, highlighted IUST’s outreach-driven approach in addressing societal challenges. “As a responsible institution, IUST engages with stakeholders on issues like disasters, education, languages, and artificial intelligence,” he said.
Prof. Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi, Registrar IUST, spoke about the university’s initiatives through its Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction and expressed hope that the year’s theme would inspire collective action toward resilience-building. Prof. Shakeel Ahmad, Consultant IUST, presented the theme of this year’s IDDRR and underscored the importance of risk-informed and resilient investments in both development and private sectors.
The event also featured a special talk on the “Ecosystem Approach for Disaster Risk Reduction and Sustainable Development.” A panel discussion on the international theme “Fund Resilience, Not Disasters” was chaired by Prof. Romshoo, with panelists including Dr. Afroz Ahmad (NGT), Dr. Biljana Radojevic (Sr. Climate Finance Advisor, UNESCO), Dr. Prahalad Ram (ANRF, New Delhi), Dr. Sarah (Department of Earth Sciences, University of Kashmir), Dr. Shahid Rasool (CSIR-IIIM Srinagar), and Dr. Rayees Ahmad Pir (CGWB, NWHR).
A poster session showcasing the work of students and research scholars on disaster risk reduction was also held. The program was coordinated by Dr. Irfan Maqbool Bhat, while the sessions were moderated by Dr. Mehak Majeed. Dr. Waseem Qader proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging the participation and contributions of all guests and collaborators.
