September 27, 2025, New Delhi — The Sikkim Commission on Glacial Hazards convened a National Consultation on Glacial Hazards at the Indian National Science Academy in New Delhi to strengthen disaster risk reduction coordination among central agencies.
The consultation, organized by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of Sikkim, brought together representatives from 16 leading national institutions and central agencies to map stakeholder roles in GLOF disaster risk reduction.
The primary objective was to identify how various central institutes and ministries can contribute and support the Government of Sikkim in managing glacial lake outburst flood risks. This initiative reflects Sikkim’s growing concerns following recent glacial disasters in the region.
Participating organizations included NITI Aayog, DST, NDMA, NDSA, ISRO, NIDM, CWC, IMD, CWPRS Pune, WIHG Dehradun, NCPOR Goa, and GSI. Other key participants were NIH Roorkee, DGRE DRDO, Sikkim University, University of Kashmir, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, University of Graz, and SSDMA.
The consultation was chaired by Dr. Akhilesh Gupta, Chairperson of the commission. Prof Mahendra P. Lama, Dr. Sandeep Tambe (Principal Secretary), and Dhirendra G. Shrestha (Secretary) attended along with senior officials from DST.
The commission and participating agencies collectively worked to understand institutional roles and responsibilities to strengthen coordination. They discussed how different organizations can better support the Government of Sikkim in managing glacial hazards.
The consultation resulted in fruitful exchange of ideas, experiences, and partnerships that will be taken forward in coming days. Officials shared technical expertise and discussed collaborative approaches to monitor and mitigate glacial risks.
Participants appreciated this initiative of the Government of Sikkim and acknowledged the emerging role of the state as a leader in GLOF Disaster Risk Reduction. Sikkim’s proactive approach in bringing together national agencies was widely praised.
The consultation marks an important step in building a comprehensive framework for glacial hazard management. It aims to protect vulnerable mountain communities from potential glacial lake outburst floods through improved coordination and scientific monitoring.