Agartala/Aizawl, May 20 (IANS) Assam Rifles and the Indian Army conducted joint flood relief and disaster response training exercises in Tripura and Mizoram aimed at enhancing coordination, operational preparedness and emergency response capabilities ahead of the monsoon season in the two Northeastern states, officials said on Wednesday.

Defence Spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Mahendra Rawat said that the two-day joint training exercise, held in Tripura on May 19 and 20, was organised to ensure seamless conduct of flood relief operations during natural disasters and to strengthen synergy, coordination, readiness and response capabilities between the two forces.

Troops of Assam Rifles and the Indian Army jointly participated in various disaster management drills and practised standard operating procedures related to rescue and relief operations.

During the exercise, personnel of both forces utilised common drills, equipment and operational procedures to ensure uniformity in training, coordination and execution during emergencies.

The joint exercise significantly enhanced interoperability between the two forces and ensured that both are adequately prepared to undertake coordinated disaster relief operations whenever required.

The training programme also reaffirmed the commitment of the security forces towards extending timely assistance to civil authorities and ensuring the safety and well-being of people during natural calamities and other emergencies.

Meanwhile, in Mizoram, the Assam Rifles, in coordination with the Central Young Lai Association (CYLA), conducted an intensive four-day joint disaster preparedness and response training programme at Zorinpui in Lawngtlai district.

Another Defence Spokesman said that the initiative marked a significant step towards strengthening disaster resilience and regional safety in the border areas of Mizoram.

The training programme was specifically designed to prepare local communities for challenges arising during the upcoming monsoon season.

The comprehensive curriculum focused on crucial emergency response skills, including flood relief operations, fire-fighting techniques and specialised Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) procedures.

By combining the operational expertise of the Assam Rifles with the strong grassroots network of the Central Young Lai Association, the programme successfully established a robust framework for coordinated disaster response in the border regions.

The leadership of the Central Young Lai Association and local participants highly appreciated the initiative and stressed that such practical and hands-on training programmes are essential for safeguarding lives and property during natural disasters.

“The successful completion of the training programme reflected the unwavering commitment of the Assam Rifles to its “Sentinels of the Northeast” ethos by promoting security, humanitarian assistance and community well-being through active partnership, preparedness and coordinated response mechanisms,” the Spokesman added.

–IANS

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