A high-level Indian delegation, led by Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr. P.K. Mishra, participated in the G-20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group (DRRWG) Ministerial Meeting in Belem, Brazil.
During the meeting, the Indian delegation played a pivotal role in finalizing the first Ministerial declaration on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). In his remarks throughout the sessions, Dr. Mishra highlighted the progress made by the Government of India in mitigating disaster risks and enhancing disaster financing.
Dr. Mishra underscored India’s proactive approach to DRR, focusing on the five priorities established during India's G20 Presidency: early warning systems, disaster-resilient infrastructure, DRR financing, resilient recovery, and nature-based solutions. He specifically mentioned the Prime Minister's global initiative, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), which now includes 40 countries and seven international organizations.
Reiterating India’s commitment to the Sendai Framework, Dr. Mishra called for enhanced international collaboration on knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and sustainable development to bolster global disaster resilience.
The delegation also engaged in a Troika meeting with the ministers of Brazil and South Africa, as well as bilateral discussions with ministers from Brazil, Japan, Norway, South Africa, South Korea, Germany, and representatives from invited international organizations.
In response to the UN Secretary-General's call regarding extreme heat, Dr. Mishra shared India's experiences and the steps being taken to promote traditional practices tailored to local conditions.
The DRR Working Group was established at India's initiative during its G20 Presidency in 2023. Dr. Mishra congratulated Brazil on its leadership in continuing and elevating the DRRWG to the Ministerial level and affirmed India’s support for South Africa in its upcoming G20 Presidency.
India’s participation reflects its growing influence in global disaster risk reduction efforts and its commitment to creating a safer, more resilient world.