Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU) has undertaken a commendable initiative by establishing a substantial volunteer force dedicated to disaster relief efforts. The disaster management team, named ‘MGU Team On Spot,’ comprises 4800 individuals, including volunteers from the National Service Scheme (NSS) and NCC cadets from affiliated colleges of the University. Remarkably, this marks the first instance in the country where a university has formed such an extensive volunteer force specifically for disaster relief.
The Minister of Cooperation and Registration, V.N. Vasavan, inaugurated the team during a function held at CMS College, Kottayam. The Minister commended MGU for pioneering a model in establishing this disaster management team and emphasised the importance of team members acting with confidence in disaster-affected areas. The Vice-Chancellor, Dr. C.T Aravinda Kumar, presided over the function.
Services provided by MGU on Spot will be available in the districts of Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Pathanamthitta, and the eastern regions of Alappuzha district. This collaborative effort will involve coordination with state and district disaster management authorities, government departments, and local bodies.
Team members will undergo training conducted with the support of Disaster Management Authorities, Police, Fire and Rescue Services, the Health Department, and experts in various fields. Disaster management activities will be executed in accordance with the directives of government agencies and departments.
The services rendered by the MGU team on spot encompass a spectrum of areas, including disaster preparedness, evacuation of individuals in disaster-prone areas, rescue operations, first aid, assistance in relief camps, and the restoration of water sources contaminated by natural calamities, as well as rehabilitation efforts.
