SRMIST Collaborates with District Administration to Build Disaster-Ready Youth through Yuva Aapda Mitra Training

 

SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), in association with the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Chengalpattu, and the Tamil Nadu Disaster Risk Reduction Agency (TNDRRA), hosted the Yuva Aapda Mitra Volunteer Training Programme from 6–12 July 2026 at the Kattankulathur campus. The initiative aims to develop a cadre of trained youth volunteers capable of supporting communities and government agencies during disasters and emergencies.

The inaugural programme was presided over by Mr. S. Venkatachalam, Personal Assistant (General) to the District Collector, Chengalpattu. The welcome address was delivered by Mr. Selvaseelan, Special Tahsildar (Disaster Management).

In his special address, Dr. V. Thirumurugan, Associate Director (Campus Life), SRMIST, emphasized that higher educational institutions play a pivotal role in fostering disaster preparedness and community resilience. He highlighted the importance of empowering students with practical knowledge, leadership skills, and a spirit of volunteerism so they can effectively contribute during emergencies and support disaster risk reduction initiatives.

The inaugural session was graced by distinguished experts, including Dr. M. Bharath, Epidemiology Expert; Mr. Prasanth, Tamil Nadu Disaster Response Force (TNDRF); Dr. Grija, Dean, Adhiparasakthi College of Nursing; Mr. Sathish Kumar, NSS Programme Officer, Sairam Engineering College; and Mr. Prakash, NSS Coordinator, SRMIST.

 

The week-long programme brought together 251 volunteers from the National Service Scheme (NSS) and Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), along with 15 faculty coordinators. Participants underwent comprehensive training in disaster preparedness, search and rescue, first aid, emergency response, fire safety, flood rescue, and community-based disaster risk reduction through expert-led sessions, practical demonstrations, and field exercises.

The programme reflects SRMIST's continued commitment to social responsibility, community engagement, and nation-building by partnering with government agencies to equip young volunteers with life-saving skills and the confidence to serve society during times of crisis. Through such initiatives, SRMIST continues to nurture socially responsible citizens and future leaders dedicated to building safer and more resilient communities.

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