Puri: Puri is all set to kick off a three-day international conference the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group Technical Meeting beginning today.
This marks Odisha’s first-ever hosting of a BRICS-level conference, highlighting the state’s proven expertise in managing disasters and its growing role in international cooperation.
Delegates from 11 countries — Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Indonesia — have gathered under India’s BRICS Presidency for in-depth discussions on strengthening resilience, prevention strategies, technological innovation, and cross-border cooperation in tackling natural disasters and climate challenges.
As the first in-person technical meeting of the group during India’s 2026 chairmanship, the event is expected to foster practical collaboration in disaster preparedness, response, and sustainable recovery practices.
The three-day deliberations are being held at a Puri hotel amid robust security arrangements, including extensive CCTV coverage and enhanced police deployment. Authorities have also tightened measures in Konark, where delegates are scheduled to visit during their stay.
This high-profile gathering underscores Odisha’s rising stature in disaster management on the global stage.
The Puri district administration and police officials have undertaken comprehensive arrangements to ensure the successful conduct of the international event.
Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania conducted a detailed on-ground review of security arrangements at the Taj Hotel in Balia Panda area, the venue for the BRICS Meeting.
The DGP personally inspected the hotel premises and surrounding areas just before the commencement of the conference. He received a comprehensive briefing from Puri SP Prateek Singh regarding traffic management, VIP movement protocols, and overall security measures.
According to the plan, the entire hotel and its surroundings will be placed under a strict security cordon during the event. As many as eight platoons of police force along with senior officers will remain deployed to ensure foolproof security.
The inaugural session of the three-day BRICS meeting is scheduled for today. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari will address the gathering as the Chief Speaker.
