Youth Organisation For Disaster Management

: Almost every day disasters are striking several parts of the world. In India, 59 per cent of the land mass is susceptible to seismic hazard; 5 per cent of the total geographical area is prone to floods; 8 per cent of the total landmass is prone to cyclones; 70 per cent of the total cultivable area is vulnerable to drought. In addition to this manmade hazard, which are frequent and cause huge damage to life and property. It is therefore important to have preparation to cope with the effects of disasters such as damage, disruption of assets, networks, and social capital and casualties. Young people are often seriously affected when disasters strike and can face severe difficulties in coping with unexpected and traumatic interruptions to their lives. But despite this, the world’s youth are also the very people who can teach their communities - and the wider world - how to reduce the risks and impact of disasters. Young people are unmatched by any other demographic group in their ability to bring about meaningful change in social behavior and attitudes. We must not underestimate their potential to make a real difference in the time of disasters. Hence efforts are needed by educational institutions to develop knowledge on disaster management and climate change among the youth. And also built attitude towards the importance of preparedness. Further the youth has to be equipped with the skills essential to participate in disaster management activities. In this connection the Universities through extension programmes, NCC, NSS, Nehru Yuvakendras, Red Cross societies, Boys and Scouts and NGOs etc., has to train the youth to bring hazardous situation under control faster by systemic approach. This paper deals with the disaster management by youth organisations through educational institutions.