The prevalent Geo-climatic conditions as well as increased frequency of natural calamities in the South Asian Countries Region, especially in the wake of the recent Himalayan Tragedy in Nepal in the month of April 2015, calls for enhanced / strengthened levels of preparedness and risk resilience as well as collaborative action amongst member countries so as to individually and jointly deal with such disaster situations and ensure minimal loss of lives and assets. Disaster preparedness has traditionally remained inadequate in many countries for want of enhancement of capacities of the Disaster Management Institutions in response capabilities as well as inter-institutional and intergovernmental coordination. The lessons learnt from HFA (Hyogo Framework for Action) reinforce that Global, Regional and Trans-boundary cooperation remains pivotal in supporting countries, local authorities, communities and businesses to reduce disaster risk. Therefore, Regional and International cooperation is essential not only to cope with the impacts of disaster but also to help ensure stability and economic growth in the region.

With respect to the South Asian countries Region, the lessons learnt from various disasters, and the most recent Himalayan Earthquake Tragedy in Nepal and Afghanistan, reinforce the critical need for strengthening regional coordination and cooperation in disaster response preparedness, especially in the use of foreign civil aid and military assets. South Asian countries agreement on Rapid Response to Natural Disasters has been signed by Member Countries in 2011 to enable joint response to disaster emergencies through concerted national efforts and intensified regional cooperation.

The purpose of the SAADMEx is to provide participants with an opportunity to review and discuss disaster response plans and capabilities of an affected country by both national authorities and external multi-lateral organizations. The exercise will focus on national on-site emergency command and control, coordination, critical decisions, notifications, and the coordination and integration of regional and international humanitarian supports.