The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has introduced a couple of noteworthy initiatives: the ‘Angikaar’ campaign focused on behavioural transformations and an e-Course designated as ‘Vulnerability Atlas of India’. Both of these initiatives aim to make significant contributions in their respective fields, highlighting the necessity for sustainable living practices and creating a comprehensive understanding of disaster risks.
Angikaar Campaign
The Angikaar campaign has been inaugurated with the objective of fostering social behavioural transformations. The key areas where the campaign focuses include water and energy conservation, waste management, health, tree plantation, sanitation, and hygiene. This campaign is specifically created for the beneficiaries of completed houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – PMAY (U).
One notable feature of this initiative is its planned convergence with the schemes and missions of other ministries that deal with the aforementioned subjects. For instance, there is a special emphasis on collaboration with Ujjwala for gas connection, and Ayushman Bharat for health insurance, exclusively for the beneficiaries of PMAY (U).
The campaign was initiated across all target cities on 2nd October 2019, marking the commemoration of the 150th Gandhi Jayanti. It successfully culminated on the occasion of Human Rights Day, 10th December, 2019.
e-Course on Vulnerability Atlas
The ‘Vulnerability Atlas of India’ e-course is an innovative endeavour offering awareness and understanding about natural hazards. It assists in identifying regions with high vulnerability with respect to various hazards and provides district-wise level of damage risks to the existing housing stock.
The e-course serves as an essential tool for efficient and effective disaster mitigation and management. It finds its application in numerous fields such as Architecture, Civil Engineering, Urban & Regional Planning, Housing & Infrastructure Planning, Construction Engineering & Management, and Building & Materials Research.
Facts Table
| Initiative Details | Key Objectives |
|---|---|
| Angikaar Campaign | Fosters social behavioural change, focusing on areas such as water and energy conservation, waste management, health, tree plantation, sanitation, and hygiene |
| e-Course on Vulnerability Atlas | Promotes awareness and understanding about natural hazards, assists in identifying vulnerable regions, and provides details on damage risks within districts |
Summary
These two initiatives by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, namely the Angikaar campaign and e-Course on ‘Vulnerability Atlas of India,’ aim to make a significant impact. They integrate behavioural transformation with practical learning, thus paving the path for sustainable living and preparedness against potential catastrophes.