A District-level Inter-College Quiz Competition was held today at Government Science College, Chakung. The event was organised by the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority, Land Revenue & Disaster Management Department, in commemoration of State Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Day, observed every year on September 18.
Soreng, Chakung, September 9 (IPR):
A District-level Inter-College Quiz Competition was held today at Government Science College, Chakung. The event was organised by the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority, Land Revenue & Disaster Management Department, in commemoration of State Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Day, observed every year on September 18.
The competition created a stimulating and inquisitive atmosphere, with active participation from 10 colleges across Namchi, Soreng, and Gyalshing districts. Six colleges advanced to the semi-finals, out of which three teams emerged as winners. These colleges will now represent their districts in the upcoming State-Level Finale at Gangtok on September 18. The event not only showcased the participants knowledge and preparedness but also reflected their determination and awareness in the field of disaster management.
The programme began with the Additional Director (SSDMA) Mr Rajiv Roka welcoming the chief guest, Advisor (IPR) Mr SB Subba, along with other dignitaries, through the traditional offering of khadas and mementos. Thereby followed by the ceremonial lamp lighting and the college anthem.
In his address, Advisor (IPR) Mr SB Subba stressed the importance of the District Disaster Management Authority and the Quick Response Team (QRT). He highlighted the challenges faced during the monsoon season and underlined the importance of community cooperation in disaster management. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the public during calamities while urging precautionary measures. He called upon the Roads and Bridges Department to maintain drainage systems, and the Power and Forest Departments to mitigate risks caused by falling trees and potential electrocution hazards.
Additional Director (SSDMA) Mr Rajiv Roka further emphasised the importance of DRR Day, citing Sikkim’s vulnerability to disasters. He highlighted the need to shift focus from relief-centric efforts to preparedness, mitigation, and prevention. Quoting United Nations Development Programme (UNDP’s) evaluation, he shared that disaster rates are projected to rise by 30% worldwide in the next two decades. He also reminded the gathering that DRR Day commemorates the lives lost in the devastating earthquake of September 18, 2011, while underlining the importance of implementing stronger disaster readiness measures.
Earlier, Quiz Master Mr Diwakar Basnet briefed the participants on the event format and stressed how such initiatives help spread disaster awareness and provide a platform for learning. Students also presented their contributions to disaster risk reduction through their college activities and shared reflections on the significance of the event.
Finalists of the District-Level Quiz Competition:
* Sikkim Govt. B.Ed. College, Soreng
* Government Science College, Chakung
* National Institute of Technology, Ravangla
Dignitaries present included Advisor (IPR) Mr S B Subba, Chairman (Land Use and Environment Board) Mr Phurba Bhutia, OSD (Education) Mr Sonam Palzor Bhutia, OSD (Animal Husbandry) Mr PP Sharma, APS to HCM (Soreng) Mr Eras Lucksom, DC Soreng Mr Dhiraj Subedi, ADC-I Mr DR Bista, Additional Director (SSDMA) Mr Rajiv Roka, DPO Ms Rajni Pega, Principal of Government Science College Chakung Ms IM Upreti, along with teachers and students of the participating colleges.