NEW DELHI: The UGC has asked universities across the country to introduce a disaster management course with subjects such as rescue operations for bomb threats, campus shooting and terror attacks.
The University Grants Commission said the course should be made compulsory.
The move is aimed at safeguarding students against accidents as well as attacks and threats, it said in a recent letter to the universities.
“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,” the letter stated.
The government had in 2015 issued guidelines on “Safety of students on and off campuses of higher educational institutions and universities”.
A few universities are already offering courses on disaster management.
“Planning for natural disasters and emergencies is something every educational institution must consider. Preparation is the key to saving precious lives or minimise possible losses if a disaster strikes,” the UGC letter added.
PTI