A high-level Indian delegation, headed by Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr. P.K. Mishra, participated in the G-20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group (DRRWG) Ministerial Meeting from October 30 to November 1, in Belem, Brazil.

During the meeting, the Indian delegation played a pivotal role in finalizing the first Ministerial declaration on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). Dr. Mishra highlighted India’s significant advancements in mitigating disaster risks and enhancing disaster financing. He underscored the country’s proactive approach, focusing on five key priorities established during India’s G-20 presidency: early warning systems, disaster-resilient infrastructure, DRR financing, resilient recovery, and nature-based solutions.

In particular, Dr. Mishra showcased the Prime Minister’s global initiative, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), which now comprises 40 countries and seven international organizations.

Emphasizing India’s commitment to the Sendai Framework, Dr. Mishra called for enhanced international cooperation in knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and sustainable development to bolster global disaster resilience. The Indian delegation also engaged in Troika meetings with ministers from Brazil and South Africa and held bilateral discussions with representatives from Japan, Norway, South Korea, Germany, and various international organizations.

In response to the United Nations Secretary-General’s call regarding extreme heat, Dr. Mishra shared India’s strategies, including the promotion of traditional practices tailored to local conditions.

The establishment of the first DRR WG was initiated by India during its G-20 presidency in 2023. Dr. Mishra commended Brazil for continuing the DRRWG’s work and pledged India’s support to South Africa for the group’s upcoming G-20 presidency.