Dr. Kala Venkata Uday, IIT Mandi Honored with WCDM Disaster Preparedness Award 2024
February, 18th, Mandi;
Dr. Kala Venkata Uday, a pioneering geotechnical engineer and associate professor at IIT Mandi, received the prestigious Disaster Preparedness Award at the WCDM-DRR Awards Ceremony 2024. The event, held at the Constitution Club of India, celebrated trailblazers in disaster risk reduction and resilience.
The ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, as the Chief Guest, and Justice Shri M.M. Kumar, Former Chief Justice of Jammu & Kashmir, as the Guest of Honor. Shri Sanjay Kumar, IAS, Secretary of the Department of School Education & Literacy, also attended, adding to the occasion’s grandeur.
Dr. Uday was recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to landslide disaster risk reduction, nature-based mitigation solutions, and innovations in bio-geotechnics. With over 15 years of experience, including spearheading IIT Mandi’s pioneering initiatives in landslide monitoring and early warning systems, Dr. Uday’s research has transformed disaster management practices, particularly in the Himalayan region.
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Uday highlighted the collective effort of his team and the unwavering support of IIT Mandi, stating, “This award is a testament to our commitment to building disaster-resilient communities. It motivates us to further our mission of saving lives and safeguarding infrastructure.”
The WCDM-DRR Awards, organized by the Disaster Management Initiatives and Convergence Society (DMICS), spotlight leaders in disaster resilience. This year’s event featured policymakers, scientists, and industry experts, fostering dialogue on innovative solutions for disaster management.
Dr. Uday’s achievements underscore the critical role of academia in addressing real-world challenges. His innovative solutions, including IoT-based early warning systems and sustainable construction practices, continue to inspire and empower communities to mitigate disaster risks effectively.
