As part of a coordinated statewide initiative, Chumoukedima district successfully conducted a large-scale disaster preparedness mock drill on April 30, 2026 under the Nagaland Emergency Preparedness Exercise (NEPEx) 2026. Organized by the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), Home Department, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, along with the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Chumoukedima, the exercise was carried out at four locations to assess the district’s preparedness in handling emergency situations. Various Incident Response Teams, including personnel from SDRF, Home Guards & Civil Defence, Health & Family Welfare other line departments, actively participated in the drill.
The mock exercise primarily focused on testing communication systems, inter-departmental coordination, and response mechanisms in search and rescue as well as medical assistance. Officials reported that the chain of command—from site-level teams to the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and Incident Commander—functioned smoothly during the operation.
Following the exercise, Responsible Officer & Deputy Commissioner, Polan John, NCS, highlighted key adjustments made during execution. He stated that the incident response system functioned effectively, maintaining proper coordination across all levels. He acknowledged the collective efforts of all departments and volunteers from CFR and Can Youth Organisation in the smooth conduct of the exercise, and appreciated the contributions of PWD, Transport and other agencies in providing machinery and vehicles. A secondary hazard simulation involving a fire incident at the Chumoukedima Town Council (CTC) office was also successfully carried out. Observers monitored the drill at multiple locations across Chumoukedima district, including St. Joseph’s Higher Secondary School, Zudio Mall and the LPG bottling plant.
The DC stressed the need for better resource mapping and recommended a dedicated communication channel for improved coordination during emergencies. Overall, the district administration expressed satisfaction with the exercise and called for continued feedback to strengthen future disaster preparedness efforts.
(Limatoshi & Samuel, IA Chumoukedima)
