Integrated Alert System (SACHET)

Why in News?

In a session on disaster risk reduction (DRR) at the ongoing G20 ministerial meeting in Durban, India’s Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister outlined the need for compliant Integrated Alert System.

• The Integrated Alert System, known as SACHET, is a pan-India early warning platform for disseminating alerts on natural and man-made disasters.
• Developed by - The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) for the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), it is based on the international Common Alerting Protocol (CAP).
• Integrates alert agencies - The platform connects various government agencies that generate alerts, such as:
  • India Meteorological Department (IMD).
  • Central Water Commission (CWC).
  • Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS).
  • Geological Survey of India (GSI).
• Geo-targeted alerts - The system delivers real-time, geo-targeted alerts directly to citizens in their regional languages via multiple channels:
  • SMS notifications
  • A mobile app for Android
  • Browser alerts
  • Satellite terminals (GAGAN and NavIC)
• Comprehensive coverage - It provides warnings for a wide range of emergencies, including:
  • Natural disasters (cyclones, floods, tsunamis, forest fires)
  • Man-made crises (industrial accidents, health emergencies)
• Accessing SACHET
  • Mobile App - The official SACHET app is available on the Google Play Store and provides location-specific alerts and weather updates from the IMD.
  • Web Portal - The National Disaster Alert Portal (sachet.ndma.gov.in) is a GIS-based portal where the public can view current warnings nationwide.
  • Browser Notifications and RSS Feed - The web portal also allows users to subscribe to browser notifications and an RSS feed for alerts.
• Key benefits
  • Increased reach - By using various dissemination media, SACHET increases the chances that people in affected areas will receive timely warnings.
  • Improved response - It simplifies the process for officials to alert the public, reducing confusion and delay in emergency situations.
  • Enhanced awareness- The portal helps the public stay aware of potential dangers and provides guidance like "Do's and Don'ts" for various disasters.
  • Language support - The system operates in multiple Indian languages, making it more accessible to a wider population.

Reference

The Hindu | SACHET