State’s Aapda Mitra volunteer invited as special guest for R-Day celebrations in Delhi

SHILLONG, Jan 16: In what can be deemed a proud moment for Meghalaya, Iarisha Kharbhoi, an Aapda Mitra volunteer from East Khasi Hills district, has been invited as a special guest to attend the Republic Day Celebration 2026 in New Delhi, in recognition of her exemplary service in the field of disaster management.
A trained Aapda Mitra volunteer and master trainer under the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme, Kharbhoi has made significant contributions to strengthening disaster preparedness and response at the grassroots level.
She has been actively associated with the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), East Khasi Hills, and has served as a resource person in several training programmes on search and rescue, first aid and mock drills.
These programmes were conducted for youth, students, security personnel and community members across the district.
Her dedication came to the fore during the major fire incident at Thana Road, Police Bazaar, in October 2023. Despite restrictions, she responded promptly and played an active role in evacuation efforts, management of relief camps and the distribution of essential supplies.
She continued her voluntary services for nearly two weeks, including night duties, to support affected families.
Apart from emergency response, Kharbhoi has also been involved in capacity-building initiatives such as school safety programmes, NCC camps and disaster awareness activities, thereby contributing to long-term community preparedness.
It may be noted that the District Disaster Management Authority, East Khasi Hills, trained 202 Aapda Mitra volunteers during 2022-23 and another 600 volunteers during 2025-26, who have since emerged as valuable resources in disaster management efforts.