The TISS established the Jamsetji Tata Centre for Disaster Management (JTCDM) on 6 May 2006.

It brings together six decades of work by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences in post-disasters relief and rehabilitation, as well as research and teaching on the subject. The JTCDM’s core agenda is the reinvention of disaster management in the country, by conducting critical research and training on disasters, vulnerability, appropriate technology and development. It also facilitates the setting up of holistic, accountable and participatory systems for disaster response and mitigation. The center's work is based on principles of social and environmental justice and human security.

 

The JTCDM integrates expertise and experiences from a range of disciplines and collaborates with diverse institutions to achieve the following objectives: 

 

Building professional, institutional and voluntary capacities for disaster prevention, preparedness and response

Research on disasters, human security and development

Networking for knowledge development, direct intervention and policy advocacy

Establishing a Disaster Resource Center

Long term intervention for ecological and human security

 

Educational and Training Programmes

 

The dynamic challenges posed by disasters and the contexts in which they occur therefore the center offers a wide variety of educational and training programs, engage in research, publication and policy work.

 

M.A / M.Sc in Disaster Management: The Master’s programme in Disaster Management is offered by the center since 2007 and aims at enhancing knowledge, skills and perspectives on disaster. The applicants for the course are from diverse backgrounds with degrees in engineering, journalism, architecture, sociology, political sciences, business studies and globalization. The first batch of students passed out in May 2009. The Masters course offers a multi-level exit and entry option.

 

M.Phil / Ph.D Scholars: The Center has several doctoral students pursuing research in fields related to disaster management providing opportunities for independent and cutting edge research. A centralized admission procedure is followed and applicants are required to develop and submit a research proposal.