Guwahati: The nation’s major transporter, Indian Railways, is a vital organ in any crisis situation. To understand the mutual strengths and optimise resources, the Indian Army and the Railway conducted a planning exercise to meet any crisis situation. A scenario planning exercise was held in Guwahati under 101 Area and HQ Eastern Command, the Indian Army’s largest command covering Northeast Bharat. This vital conference between the Army and Northeast Frontier Railway focused on understanding mutual strengths and optimising resources. The primary goal was to align working mechanisms to ensure rapid, coordinated responses during any national crisis.
The session brainstormed diverse contingencies to bolster operational preparedness across the sensitive Eastern sector. Significant emphasis was placed on developing dual-use infrastructure, a strategic move designed to enhance logistics while ensuring substantial expenditure savings for the government. Senior officers from NFR, Eastern Command, and Army HQ attended to draw critical lessons in synergy and inter-agency coordination. By streamlining these processes, the exercise developed a higher level of confidence among stakeholders. This collaborative framework ensures that both the military and railways can seamlessly integrate their efforts, providing a unified and efficient front during times of criticality.
Jal Raksha: Indian Army and NDRF conducted joint flood relief and rescue exercise
In view of the approaching monsoon season and the recurring flood challenges in the region, the Red Shield Gunners under the aegis of Spear Corps conducted Exercise Jal Raksha, a joint flood relief training activity in coordination with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) on 16–17 March 2026 to enhance preparedness and strengthen inter-agency coordination for flood-related emergencies.
The training commenced with an equipment display and briefing by the Indian Army on the composition, role and operational capabilities of Flood Relief Columns. Representatives from NDRF also briefed participants on the organisation, responsibilities and functioning of flood response teams. A practical demonstration of flood relief equipment and rescue techniques was conducted to familiarise participants with procedures adopted during flood emergencies.
On the second day, activities were conducted at Rupai and Tengapani Ghat and included ground and drone-based aerial reconnaissance, establishment of a Joint Command Post and execution of joint rescue and casualty evacuation drills simulating flood emergency scenarios. NDRF personnel demonstrated boat capsize drills and evacuation techniques, while Army medical teams showcased first aid and emergency medical relief procedures during disaster situations. NCC cadets and members of the local populace also participated in the activity, gaining exposure to disaster response operations and witnessing first-hand the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army and NDRF in safeguarding lives during natural calamities.
Such joint training initiatives strengthen inter-agency coordination, operational synergy and preparedness, ensuring a swift and effective response during natural disasters, reads a statement released by PRO Defence, Guwahati Col Mahendra Rawat.
