**Agartala, June 2:** In preparation for the upcoming monsoon season, the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Assam Rifles and other agencies have intensified disaster preparedness efforts across Tripura, Mizoram and other Northeastern states through a series of joint flood relief and emergency response exercises.
A defence spokesman said the Indian Army and NDRF jointly conducted a comprehensive flood relief and mock rescue drill in Agartala to strengthen coordination and operational readiness in the event of flood-related emergencies. The exercise witnessed active participation from civil administration officials, local stakeholders and community members, who were also sensitised about disaster preparedness and emergency response measures.
The drill simulated realistic flood scenarios involving the rescue of stranded civilians, evacuation from inundated areas, provision of medical assistance, establishment of relief camps and transportation of essential supplies. Teams from the Army and NDRF demonstrated specialised rescue operations, deployment of rescue boats, casualty evacuation procedures, communication protocols and coordinated relief measures.
Officials said the exercise provided an opportunity to validate standard operating procedures, improve response mechanisms and enhance interoperability between agencies. The initiative underscored the importance of swift decision-making, resource sharing and coordinated action in mitigating the impact of natural disasters.
Meanwhile, in Mizoram, Assam Rifles conducted a five-day boatmanship training programme for personnel deployed across the state as part of preparations for monsoon-related contingencies. The training covered boat handling, river navigation, flood rescue operations, casualty evacuation, safety procedures, outboard motor handling and tactical river-crossing techniques.
The programme concluded with practical river-crossing and rescue drills, allowing participants to apply and test the skills acquired during the training.
Defence officials said the exercises reflect the commitment of the Army, NDRF and Assam Rifles to maintaining a high level of operational readiness and ensuring timely assistance to civil authorities and local communities during natural disasters. Such collaborative initiatives play a crucial role in strengthening disaster response capabilities across the Northeast.
