NDMA, AcSIR and CSIR–NIScPR Sign MoU to Boost Disaster Management Policy Research in India
New Delhi, February 21, 2026: In a major step towards strengthening India’s disaster resilience framework, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), and CSIR–National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR–NIScPR) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote academic programmes, interdisciplinary research, and policy engagement in Disaster Management and Risk Reduction (DMRR).
The collaboration seeks to integrate science, technology, and public policy to build a disaster-resilient India through structured academic initiatives, capacity building, and enhanced science communication.
Key Highlights of the MoU
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Launch of a PhD Programme in Disaster Management under AcSIR at CSIR–NIScPR with support from NDMA.
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Joint research and policy studies focusing on science communication, disaster preparedness, and risk reduction strategies.
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Capacity-building initiatives to strengthen institutional frameworks and community-level disaster response mechanisms.
Bridging Science and Policy for Disaster Resilience
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Dinesh Kumar Aswal, Member, NDMA, emphasized the authority’s commitment to integrating scientific research with societal preparedness. He underscored the importance of leveraging communication channels to enhance early warning systems, risk communication, and community outreach.
Dr. Aswal highlighted the need for systematic post-disaster studies and documentation to institutionalize a culture of continuous learning. He noted that the MoU represents a significant step toward creating a collaborative bridge between scientists and policy professionals to address evolving disaster challenges.
NDMA functions as the apex body for disaster management policy under the Ministry of Home Affairs and will provide strategic direction and domain expertise under this partnership.
Expanding Academic and Research Opportunities
Prof. Manoj Kumar Dhar, Director of AcSIR, described the MoU as a gateway to new academic and research opportunities. With over 7,000 enrolled students and research spanning nearly all scientific domains, AcSIR aims to foster interdisciplinary solutions to disaster management challenges.
He stated that the initiative will help nurture a new generation of experts dedicated to strengthening India’s disaster resilience framework and contribute to the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Advancing Science Communication and Policy Research
Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam, Director of CSIR–NIScPR, highlighted the institution’s unique role in publishing 15 research journals, leading national science communication initiatives, and conducting evidence-based policy research.
Through this collaboration, CSIR–NIScPR will host academic programmes while driving policy research and public engagement in DMRR. The institute aims to align rigorous scientific inquiry with policymaking to deliver solutions that are scientifically robust and socially responsive.
A Strategic Step Towards Disaster-Resilient India
This tripartite collaboration marks a significant milestone in embedding scientific research, science communication, and evidence-based policymaking into India’s disaster management ecosystem. By combining NDMA’s strategic leadership, AcSIR’s academic strength, and CSIR–NIScPR’s expertise in policy research and communication, the partnership is poised to strengthen disaster preparedness, response, and long-term resilience across the country.