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UPSC MainsGENERAL-STUDIES-PAPER-I20115 Marks50 Words
Q24.

Composition and functions of the National Executive Committee of the National Disaster Management Authority.

How to Approach

The question requires a concise yet comprehensive overview of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the NDMA. The answer should focus on its composition (who constitutes it) and functions (what roles it plays). A structured approach – defining NDMA briefly, then detailing NEC’s composition with key members, followed by its functions as per the Disaster Management Act, 2005, is ideal. Prioritize clarity and precision given the word limit.

Model Answer

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Introduction

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is the apex body for disaster management in India, established under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. It is responsible for laying down policies, guidelines, and plans for disaster management. The National Executive Committee (NEC) serves as the coordinating and implementing body for the NDMA, ensuring effective disaster response and mitigation at the national level. Understanding its composition and functions is crucial for comprehending India’s disaster management framework.

Composition of the National Executive Committee

The NEC is constituted by the Central Government, as per Section 16 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005. It comprises:

  • Chairperson: The Union Home Secretary.
  • Members: Three officers, not below the rank of Joint Secretary to the Government of India, representing the Ministries/Departments dealing with:
    • Planning
    • Finance
    • Agriculture
  • Ex-officio Members: The Secretary, Department of Science and Technology and the Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
  • The Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) of the Ministry of Defence

The NEC is supported by a Secretariat headed by a Director General.

Functions of the National Executive Committee

The NEC performs a wide range of functions, primarily focused on implementation and coordination. Key functions include:

  • Implementation of NDMA Policies: NEC ensures the implementation of policies and plans formulated by the NDMA.
  • Coordination: It coordinates disaster management activities among various Ministries/Departments and State Governments.
  • Monitoring: Monitors the implementation of disaster management plans and schemes.
  • Resource Mobilization: Facilitates the mobilization of resources for disaster response and recovery.
  • Situation Assessment: Assesses the situation during a disaster and provides information to the NDMA.
  • Fund Disbursement: Disburses funds for disaster relief and rehabilitation as per the guidelines of the NDMA.
  • Capacity Building: Promotes capacity building of disaster management personnel at all levels.
  • Submissions to NDMA: Submits reports and proposals to the NDMA for its consideration.

Specific Responsibilities during Disasters

During a disaster, the NEC plays a critical role in:

  • Activating the National Crisis Management Plan (NCMP).
  • Establishing a National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC).
  • Monitoring the disaster situation through the Crisis Management Centre (CMC).
  • Coordinating rescue and relief operations.

The NEC’s effectiveness is vital for a swift and coordinated national response to disasters, bridging the gap between policy formulation by the NDMA and on-the-ground implementation.

Conclusion

The National Executive Committee is a pivotal component of India’s disaster management architecture. Its composition, drawing expertise from key ministries, and its diverse functions – from policy implementation to resource mobilization – ensure a coordinated and effective response to disasters. Strengthening the NEC’s capacity and streamlining its processes remains crucial for enhancing India’s resilience to future calamities.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Disaster Management Act, 2005
A landmark legislation in India that provides a framework for comprehensive and coordinated disaster management, establishing institutions like the NDMA, State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs), and District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs).
National Crisis Management Plan (NCMP)
A comprehensive plan outlining the roles and responsibilities of various agencies involved in disaster management, activated by the NEC during a crisis.

Key Statistics

India is highly vulnerable to disasters; 23 of its 36 states and union territories are multi-hazard prone.

Source: National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) - as of knowledge cutoff 2023

Between 2005 and 2022, India reported an average of 380 annually occurring disasters.

Source: EM-DAT: The Emergency Events Database - as of knowledge cutoff 2023

Examples

Cyclone Fani (2019)

The NEC played a crucial role in coordinating the evacuation of over 1.6 million people from coastal areas of Odisha before Cyclone Fani, minimizing loss of life. It oversaw the deployment of NDRF teams and ensured the timely provision of relief materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶What is the difference between NDMA and NEC?

The NDMA is the policy-making body, laying down broad guidelines and strategies for disaster management. The NEC is the executive arm, responsible for implementing those policies and coordinating disaster response operations.

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