Puri

The second technical meeting of the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Working Group commenced in Puri on Wednesday, bringing together policymakers and disaster management specialists from member countries to discuss strategies for strengthening disaster resilience and risk mitigation.

The three-day event, scheduled to conclude on June 5, is being hosted under India's BRICS Presidency. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is expected to participate in the proceedings on Thursday.

Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the gathering marks the first in-person technical meeting of the BRICS DRR Working Group during India's current presidency. The inaugural technical session under India's chairmanship was conducted virtually on April 29 and 30.

Representatives from BRICS nations and partner countries are taking part in the deliberations, which are being organised in Odisha for the first time. Discussions will focus on strengthening disaster preparedness, improving resilience, and sharing best practices among participating countries.

Key topics on the agenda include sustainable financing for disaster risk reduction, development of resilient infrastructure, anticipatory disaster response mechanisms, community-based disaster governance, climate-resilient systems, and the role of science, technology and innovation in disaster management. Delegates are also expected to exchange views on nature-based solutions, indigenous knowledge systems and multi-hazard early warning networks.

Originally consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, the BRICS grouping expanded in 2024 with the inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates, while Indonesia became a member in 2025.

Ahead of the meeting, Chief Minister Majhi described the event as a matter of pride for Odisha, highlighting the state's internationally recognised achievements in disaster preparedness and management. He said the conference offers an opportunity to showcase Odisha's experience in building resilient communities and reducing disaster-related risks.

Majhi welcomed delegates to Puri, noting that the city, known as the abode of Lord Jagannath, would serve as a platform for deeper cooperation among BRICS countries on disaster resilience initiatives.

Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik also welcomed the event, stating that Odisha's disaster management journey since the devastating 1999 Super Cyclone has become a model for effective preparedness and response. He said the state's emphasis on resilient infrastructure, early warnings and community participation has earned global recognition.

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Given the participation of foreign delegates, extensive security arrangements have been put in place across Puri, according to Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh.