Shillong, June 5, 2025: The week-long training programme for Yuva Aapda Mitra (YAM) Volunteers of East Khasi Hills District was formally inaugurated today by Shri S. Warjri, Additional Deputy Commissioner & CEO, DDMA, at Assam Rifles Public School, Laitkor. The event witnessed the presence of Col. Deepak Nambiar of the 61st Meghalaya Girls Battalion, NCC, and Ms. P. Lyngba, District Disaster Management Officer, among other officials.

Organized by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), the training falls under the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme, an initiative of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA). The scheme is designed to create a youth-led force trained in disaster preparedness and emergency response.

A total of 600 volunteers drawn from NCC, NSS, NYKs, and Bharat Scouts & Guides will be trained in phases. The inaugural batch consists of 65 NCC cadets. Training is being conducted by experts from the Central Training Institute, Civil Defence & Home Guards, Mawdiangdiang, alongside YAM master trainers.

The 7-day module includes comprehensive training in Disaster Management, Search & Rescue, and First Aid. Post-training, each volunteer will be provided with an Emergency Responder Kit (ERK) and covered under a three-year insurance scheme that includes life, injury, and disability coverage.

The initiative aims to build community resilience by empowering youth to serve as first responders during disasters. The district administration has urged all stakeholders to continue supporting and encouraging youth engagement in disaster risk reduction efforts