Shillong, January 16 : In a proud moment for Meghalaya and the disaster management fraternity, Iarisha Kharbhoi, an Aapda Mitra Volunteer from East Khasi Hills District, has been invited as a Special Guest to attend the 2026 Republic Day Celebration in New Delhi. The invitation recognizes her outstanding dedication and selfless service in the field of disaster management.
A trained Aapda Mitra Volunteer and Master Trainer under the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme, Kharbhoi has been instrumental in strengthening disaster preparedness and response at the grassroots level. She has actively contributed to training initiatives conducted by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), serving as a resource person for programmes on search and rescue, first aid, and mock drills for youth, students, security forces, and community groups.
Her commitment was notably demonstrated during a major fire incident at Thana Road, Police Bazaar, Shillong in October 2023. Despite access restrictions, she joined evacuation efforts, assisted in relief camp operations, aided in distributing essential supplies, and continued voluntary night duties for two weeks.
Miss Kharbhoi has also supported school safety programmes, NCC camps, and wider capacity-building efforts to ensure sustained disaster preparedness and awareness across the district.
Her invitation to the Republic Day Celebration 2026 highlights the pivotal role played by Aapda Mitra Volunteers in building community resilience nationwide. It also underscores the contributions of Meghalaya’s grassroots volunteers who continue to serve with compassion, courage, and dedication.
According to the District Disaster Management Authority (East Khasi Hills), 202 Aapda Mitra Volunteers were trained during 2022–23 and an additional 600 during 2025–26, significantly enhancing local preparedness capabilities.
