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The Third National Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (NCDRR) took place on December 26-27 at The Everest Hotel in Kathmandu. Coordinated by DPNet Nepal and organized by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), the conference focused on synthesizing lessons learned and strengthening the nation’s resilience against future disasters. The conference was graced by the Home Minister as the chief guest, chaired by Dr. Raju Thapa, the Chairperson of DPNet, and emceed by Suraj Gautam, the General Secretary of DPNet. The conference attended over 300 participants, including key governmental officials, representatives from various development partners, NGOs, academia, and the media. It showcased a concerted effort to encompass all societal segments, especially prioritizing inclusivity for women, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable communities, with amenities such as sign language interpretation and close captioning service available.

Focused on deriving actionable insights from the devastation created by the recent monsoon, the conference’s agenda was robust, addressing multiple facets of disaster risk through a series of technical sessions and panel discussions, the agenda and overall session were designed as per the guidance of Joint Secretary of NDRRMA Dr. Bhisma Bhusal. One of the key objectives was to share current research and best practices related to risk management in the rapidly changing climate scenario, enhancing future DRR strategies. Technical sessions delved into understanding various risks, including hydro-meteorological disasters and geological hazards, with a significant emphasis on risk mapping. Another session highlighted the management of risks within the evolving climate dynamics, specifically discussing the impacts on agriculture and the integration of climate change measures into broader DRR strategies. The need for accelerating actions towards sustainable futures was also a focal point, with discussions around sustainable housing solutions, recovery systems, and the potential of innovative technologies such as blockchain for activating early response mechanisms.

Panel discussions provided a platform for diverse stakeholders to share firsthand experiences and lessons learned from the monsoon responses. These discussions spanned across various sectors including health, education, urban planning, and community perspectives, offering a holistic view of the challenges faced and the strategies that proved successful. A dedicated marketplace and lightning sessions further enhanced knowledge exchange, featuring rapid sharing of learnings and DRR interventions. One of the most pressing issues addressed was the vulnerability of the agricultural sector to climate-induced disasters. Recognized as a vital component for national stability, the discussions stressed the need for resilient agricultural practices capable of withstanding extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and erratic monsoon patterns. Experts advocated for the adoption of climate-smart agriculture techniques that could fortify crop resilience and minimize the vulnerability of the food supply chain. The importance of integrating DRR into agricultural planning and policy frameworks was underscored, ensuring sustainable practices that can endure the impacts of climate change.

Technology’s role was also highlighted, with emphasis on the adoption of advanced tools like satellite imagery and weather modeling to enhance the accuracy of weather forecasts and agricultural planning. The conference called for stronger policy support and increased investment in research, urging for a collaborative effort among government agencies, research institutions, and the private sector to foster innovative techniques. Reflecting on the discussions, the conference concluded with policy feedback sessions that generated vital recommendations for integrating gender equality and inclusion in DRR strategies. These recommendations are set to guide the improvement of institutional capacities, particularly those of NDRRMA, to better prepare for and respond to various disaster event.

The Home Minister promised to dedicate at least a couple of hours monthly to discuss disaster management strategies in coordination with DPNet, reflecting a government commitment to ongoing DRR dialogues. Enhanced understanding of the links between monsoon-related risks, climate change, and livelihoods were recognized as outcomes, alongside strengthened collaboration among stakeholders across different sectors. As the conference closed, the collective resolve to use the gleaned insights to inform not only national policies but also to contribute to the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025 was substantial.