Srinagar Garhwal: In a significant recognition of expertise in Himalayan disaster studies, Prof. M.P.S. Bisht, a senior professor and leading authority on natural hazards from Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal Central University (HNBGU), has been nominated as a member of the high-level expert committee on “Hazard, Vulnerability and Risk Assessment (HVRA)” constituted by the Government of Jammu & Kashmir.

Responsibilities include hazard mapping, zone delineation, preparation of an HVRA Atlas, and formulating concrete recommendations for integrating short-term, medium-term, and long-term mitigation strategies into governance and development planning.

Most recently, on February 29–30, 2026, Prof. Bisht represented HNBGU at the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)’s consultative committee meeting for Himalayan states, where he presented valuable insights on risk reduction strategies.

This prestigious appointment underscores not only Prof. Bisht’s individual expertise on a national scale but also highlights the academic and research excellence of Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal Central University. The university community has expressed immense pride, describing the nomination as affirmation of the institution’s pivotal role in disaster management and sustainable development across Himalayan regions.

As climate change intensifies vulnerabilities in fragile mountain ecosystems, Prof. Bisht’s inclusion in the committee is expected to strengthen evidence-based policy-making for safer and more resilient communities in Jammu & Kashmir and beyond.