Bhubaneswar/New Delhi: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked all the varsities across the country to introduce a disaster management course and made it compulsory for students.

The course will have subjects such as rescue operations for bomb threats, campus shooting and terror attacks.

UGC has taken the decision with an aim to safeguard students against accidents as well as attacks and threats.

“All universities should consider compulsory courses on disaster management which shall include bomb threat, explosion, earthquake, hazardous material spill/release, campus shooting, terrorist attack, financial emergency such as unexpected loss of income, health emergency or any natural disaster,” UGC said in a letter to the universities.

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Planning for natural disasters and emergencies is something every educational institution must consider. Preparation is important to save precious lives or minimise possible losses if a disaster strikes, the letter added.

It is worth mentioning that a few universities are already offering courses on disaster management.