A high-level meeting was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Chamber, Zunheboto, on September 8 to deliberate on the formulation and submission of an Action Plan under the State Internal Security Scheme (ISS).

The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Dharam Raj, IAS, was attended by officials from various departments and security agencies.

The discussions focused on strengthening the district’s preparedness and response mechanisms under the ISS framework, including internal security, emergency preparedness, public safety and coordinated responses to unforeseen situations.

Officials discussed preparedness for external attacks and other emergencies, evacuation procedures during major disasters, availability of essential resources, and the roles and responsibilities of various departments during crises. The need for an effective, accessible and searchable communication and information system was also emphasised.

The meeting took note of the absence of air-raid sirens in Zunheboto district and discussed the need to assess suitable warning and alert mechanisms. Human rights considerations during emergency and security operations were also highlighted.

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Law and order was identified as the primary responsibility of the police during the initial response to an emergency. Participants also stressed the importance of inter-departmental coordination to ensure a swift and organised response.

Publicity and press protocols formed another part of the deliberations. Officials discussed responsible dissemination of information during emergencies, particularly in view of information warfare, misinformation and the need for appropriate communication and censorship protocols.

Dharam Raj stressed the importance of having a comprehensive and practical plan in place before any emergency occurs. He said the district must have a sound framework supported by adequate resources, clearly defined responsibilities and effective coordination mechanisms to respond to unforeseen situations.

The meeting concluded with a decision to prepare a comprehensive Action Plan incorporating the requirements, resources, responsibilities and response mechanisms of all concerned departments and security agencies.