Building a Resilient Tomorrow: PM Modi's Vision for Global Disaster Preparedness

June 8, 2025, In an increasingly interconnected world grappling with the escalating threats of climate change and natural disasters, the call for global unity in building disaster-resilient infrastructure has never been more urgent. At the forefront of this crucial initiative is Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose consistent emphasis on international cooperation is now powerfully echoed by the ongoing International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI) 2025, held from June 6-7, 2025, in Nice, France.

PM Modi has long championed the idea that disaster resilience is a shared responsibility, transcending national borders. His vision centers on a collaborative approach where nations, irrespective of their economic status, work hand-in-hand to fortify their infrastructure against the inevitable shocks of nature. This philosophy was vibrantly on display during his address to ICDRI 2025, where he underscored the particular vulnerability of coastal regions and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to climate-induced hazards.
The ICDRI 2025, co-hosted by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and the French government, serves as a pivotal platform for transforming this vision into concrete action. With its theme "Shaping a Resilient Future for Coastal Regions," the conference is bringing together governments, international organizations, experts, and the private sector to deliberate on critical issues. Key pillars of discussion include access to innovative finance for resilient infrastructure, leveraging data and technology for early warning systems, and establishing robust codes and standards for construction.
PM Modi's address highlighted several key priorities for global disaster resilience. He stressed the need for integrating disaster resilience into higher education curricula to cultivate a skilled workforce, establishing a global digital repository for sharing best practices and lessons learned, and creating actionable financing mechanisms to ensure developing nations have access to necessary funds. Furthermore, he emphasized the critical role of strengthening early warning systems and coordination for timely decision-making and last-mile communication.
India's own experiences, from the super-cyclone of 1999 to the tsunami of 2004, have provided invaluable lessons in building back with resilience. The establishment of cyclone shelters and India's contribution to a tsunami warning system benefiting 29 countries stand as testaments to its commitment. The CDRI, a testament to India's leadership in this domain, is actively working with 25 SIDS to build resilient homes, hospitals, schools, and essential services, showcasing the tangible impact of international collaboration.
As the world grapples with the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the imperative to invest in resilient infrastructure becomes paramount. PM Modi's unwavering call for global unity, amplified by the deliberations at ICDRI 2025, provides a clear roadmap towards a future where communities are better equipped to withstand disasters, protecting lives, livelihoods, and the planet. The conference in Nice serves as a powerful reminder that by working together, we can truly build infrastructure that stands steadfast against time and tide, creating a stronger, more resilient future for all.