Aizawl/Kohima, April 29 (IANS) In a first for the Northeast region, the Mizoram government, in collaboration with a private firm, on Wednesday launched a mobile application, ‘Khuarel’, aimed at enhancing real-time dissemination of disaster-related information, officials said.

Unveiling the app, Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Minister Lalnilawma highlighted that ‘Khuarel’, a Mizo word meaning nature, is designed to enable swift communication and seamless information sharing among the public, the Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Department, and the state and District Disaster Management Authorities during disaster incidents.

The application also facilitates systematic recording and management of disaster-related data, ensuring better tracking and response.

The Minister lauded the joint efforts of the Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Department and the private firm involved in developing the platform, describing it as a significant milestone for the state.

He noted that Mizoram is among the first states in the Northeast to introduce such an advanced system and urged citizens to download and actively use the app, citing its ease of use and practical benefits.

Udit Prakash Rai, Commissioner and Secretary of the Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Department, elaborated on the app’s advantages.

He stated that the platform would allow the public to instantly report disaster incidents directly to the Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Department and the respective District Disaster Management Authorities.

In addition, authorities would be able to quickly disseminate critical information to the public.

He added that the app is expected to strengthen disaster response mechanisms and significantly improve coordination among districts and various government departments across Mizoram.

Meanwhile, in Kohima, Nagaland Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen on Wednesday underscored the importance of realistic evaluation and stronger inter-agency coordination in disaster response systems.

Chairing a meeting at the State Emergency Operation Centre, Imchen stated that the primary objective of the eighth edition of the Nagaland Emergency Preparedness Exercise 2026 is not to showcase performance but to identify gaps and challenges within the existing system.

He emphasised that disaster preparedness is an ongoing and evolving process that requires continuous refinement.

He further informed that the statewide Emergency Preparedness Exercise would be conducted on Thursday to assess the readiness of all stakeholders, test and validate standard operating procedures, and enhance coordination among concerned departments to ensure a unified and effective response during disasters.

“The exercise will also evaluate critical systems, identify weaknesses, and promote greater community awareness and resilience,” he said.

The large-scale exercise will see coordinated participation from all District Administrations, state and central security forces, paramilitary units, healthcare services, urban local bodies, village councils, non-governmental organisations, and church bodies across Nagaland.

–IANS

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