Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Disaster management in India has historically been largely reactive, focusing primarily on providing relief and rehabilitation after an event. This approach, while necessary, proved insufficient in minimizing losses and building resilience. However, in recent years, the Government of India has initiated a significant shift towards a proactive and comprehensive disaster management framework. This transition is driven by increasing vulnerability to climate change-induced disasters, coupled with a growing understanding of the economic and social costs of inaction. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 has also played a crucial role in shaping India’s approach.
Shifting from Reactive to Proactive Disaster Management
The earlier disaster management approach in India was largely event-based, focusing on the ‘response’ phase. This meant mobilizing resources after a disaster struck, providing immediate relief, and undertaking rehabilitation efforts. While essential, this approach lacked a long-term vision for reducing vulnerability and building resilience. The recent measures signify a departure from this, encompassing all four phases of disaster management: prevention, mitigation, preparedness, and response.
Prevention and Mitigation
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): Established in 2005 under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, the NDMA is the apex body responsible for laying down policies and guidelines for disaster management.
- National Investment in Infrastructure and Amenities (NIIA): This component of the National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF) focuses on preventing disasters by investing in infrastructure projects like flood control, cyclone shelters, and earthquake-resistant buildings.
- Hazard Risk Mapping: The National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) is actively involved in creating hazard risk maps for various disasters, aiding in land-use planning and infrastructure development.
- Building Codes: Revision of building codes to incorporate disaster-resistant features, particularly in seismic zones and coastal areas. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a key role in this.
Preparedness
- Early Warning Systems: Significant investments have been made in strengthening early warning systems for cyclones, floods, and tsunamis. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) provides crucial warnings.
- Capacity Building: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been strengthened with specialized equipment and trained personnel. State Disaster Response Forces (SDRFs) are also being augmented.
- Community Participation: Emphasis on involving local communities in disaster preparedness through training programs and awareness campaigns.
- Mock Drills: Regular mock drills are conducted to assess preparedness levels and identify gaps in response mechanisms.
Response
- NDRF Deployment: Rapid deployment of NDRF teams to affected areas during major disasters.
- Emergency Financial Assistance: Provision of immediate financial assistance to states for relief and rehabilitation.
- Helpline Numbers & Communication Networks: Establishment of 24x7 helpline numbers and strengthening communication networks to facilitate information dissemination.
Recent Initiatives & Policy Changes
- PM-SHRI Scheme (2022): Launched to develop fully equipped, state-of-the-art infrastructure for disaster management training and capacity building.
- Heat Action Plans: Developed for several states to mitigate the impact of heatwaves, a growing concern due to climate change.
- National Monsoon Mission: Improving monsoon forecasts to enhance preparedness for flood-related disasters.
- Disaster Resilience Index: Development of a Disaster Resilience Index to measure the resilience of states and cities to various disasters.
| Phase of Disaster Management | Earlier Approach | Recent Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Prevention | Limited focus on long-term prevention | Hazard risk mapping, infrastructure investment (NIIA), revised building codes |
| Mitigation | Reactive measures after disasters | Cyclone shelters, flood control projects, earthquake-resistant construction |
| Preparedness | Ad-hoc arrangements | Strengthened early warning systems, NDRF/SDRF augmentation, community training |
| Response | Relief and rehabilitation focused | Rapid NDRF deployment, financial assistance, communication networks |
Conclusion
The Government of India’s recent measures demonstrate a clear shift towards a proactive and holistic disaster management approach. While significant progress has been made, challenges remain in ensuring effective implementation, strengthening last-mile connectivity, and addressing the growing threat of climate change-induced disasters. Continued investment in prevention, mitigation, and preparedness, coupled with enhanced community participation, is crucial for building a disaster-resilient India. Further, integrating disaster risk reduction into development planning is essential for sustainable growth.
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.