India Emerged As Global Leader In 'Disaster Warning': Jitendra Singh

Hyderabad: India today has emerged as a global leader in "disaster warning" and is catering to other nations across the world, Union Minister of State for Science & Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh, said on Thursday.

While commemorating the 20th anniversary of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami at INCOIS (Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services), said. The Minister recalled that the INCOIS was conceptualised following the tragic Tsunami of 2004 and after 2014, with an unflinching support and priority received from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it made rapid strides to be recognised as the world's most state-of-the-art institute of its kind.

Dr Singh lauded PM Modi's pathbreaking ocean initiatives, including the 'Deep Sea Mission' which he had announced in his Independence Day address. He also highlighted India’s quantum progress in ocean research and disaster preparedness. The Minister emphasized the nation’s emergence as a global leader in providing world-class disaster warning systems, underscoring the pivotal role of scientific advancements in fostering safety and sustainability.

Reflecting on the catastrophic tsunami that claimed over 2,30,000 lives worldwide, including 10,749 in India, Dr Jitendra Singh remarked on the invaluable lessons learned and the transformative policies that followed. “The tragedy served as a catalyst for establishing institutions like INCOIS, which now stands as a testament to India’s commitment to safeguarding lives and livelihoods,” he said.

India’s Tsunami Early Warning System, lauded internationally, was showcased as a cornerstone of the nation’s disaster preparedness.