The Indian Army successfully conducted the Multilateral Annual Joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, Sanyukt Vimochan 2024, on November 18-19, 2024. This exercise, held at Ahmedabad and Porbandar in Gujarat, demonstrated India’s disaster response readiness. General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, attended the event, emphasizing India’s commitment to global humanitarian efforts.
Exercise Details
Location: Ahmedabad and Porbandar, Gujarat
Dates: November 18-19, 2024
Organized by: Konark Corps of the Southern Command, Indian Army
Participants: Indian Armed Forces, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA), Meteorological Department, FICCI, and various Central and State Agencies.
Day 1: Table Top Exercise (TTX)
On November 18, 2024, the exercise commenced with a Table Top Exercise focused on a ‘Cyclone in the Coastal Region of Gujarat’ scenario. Key objectives of this event included:
- Scenario: A simulated cyclone affecting the Okha-Porbandar coastline.
- Participants: NDMA, GSDMA, Meteorological Department, Indian Armed Forces, and industry representatives.
- Purpose: Addressing gaps in interagency coordination and testing disaster relief strategies.
Day 2: Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration
On November 19, 2024, the Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration took place at Chowpatty Beach in Porbandar. This demonstration highlighted coordinated disaster management efforts, including:
- Agencies Involved: Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, NDRF, SDRF, and other Central and State agencies.
- Operations:
- Requisition for Armed Forces support.
- Surveillance and recce of the affected area.
- Rescue operations, casualty evacuation, and resuscitation/rehabilitation of affected citizens.
The exercise emphasized rapid response and effective logistics in a simulated cyclone disaster scenario.
Industrial Display
In line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, an Industrial Display was organized to showcase Indian defense industry innovations in disaster response technology. This highlighted India’s focus on self-reliance and technological advancement in humanitarian operations.
Remarks by General Upendra Dwivedi
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), commended all participants for their dedication and excellence in conducting the exercise. He emphasized:
- Global Humanitarian Leadership: India’s consistent role as a beacon of hope in disaster relief globally.
- Technological Contributions: Acknowledgment of indigenous HADR equipment developed by Indian industries.
- International Collaboration: The participation of foreign delegates highlighted India’s philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The World as One Family).
International Participation
The exercise also welcomed 15 senior officials from nine countries, including representatives from the Gulf Cooperation Council, Indian Ocean Region, and South East Asia. Their participation underscored the significance of international cooperation in disaster relief and humanitarian efforts.
Conclusion
Sanyukt Vimochan 2024 strengthened India’s preparedness in disaster management and solidified its leadership on the global stage. The exercise not only enhanced national capabilities but also contributed significantly to the global dialogue on HADR.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What was the primary focus of the Table Top Exercise (TTX) in the Sanyukt Vimochan 2024?
- a) Earthquake in Delhi
- b) Cyclone in the Coastal Region of Gujarat
- c) Floods in Northern India
- d) Terrorism in Mumbai
Answer: b) Cyclone in the Coastal Region of Gujarat
- Which agencies were involved in the Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration on Day 2?
- a) Indian Army, Police, and Fire Department
- b) Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and Indian Coast Guard
- c) Only Indian Army
- d) Indian Army and State Government Officials
Answer: b) Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and Indian Coast Guard
- What theme did the Table Top Exercise (TTX) on November 18, 2024, revolve around?
- a) Earthquake Response in Mumbai
- b) Cyclone in the Coastal Region of Gujarat
- c) Wildfire in Rajasthan
- d) Drought in South India
Answer: b) Cyclone in the Coastal Region of Gujarat
- Which initiative was showcased in the Industrial Display at the event?
- a) Smart Agriculture Technology
- b) Disaster Response Technology
- c) Urban Infrastructure Development
- d) Artificial Intelligence for Security
Answer: b) Disaster Response Technology
- What is the significance of India’s participation in global disaster relief operations, as stated by General Upendra Dwivedi?
- a) Promoting Indian Military Power
- b) India’s role as a beacon of hope and assistance in global humanitarian efforts
- c) Increasing international trade
- d) Military Expansion
Answer: b) India’s role as a beacon of hope and assistance in global humanitarian efforts