Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India is highly vulnerable to a wide range of natural and human-induced disasters due to its unique geo-climatic conditions and socio-economic factors. A ‘hazard’ is a potential source of harm, while a ‘disaster’ is the realization of that hazard, causing significant loss of life, property, and disruption of normal life. Recent events like the 2023 Sikkim floods, the 2024 heatwaves, and recurring cyclones demonstrate the increasing frequency and intensity of disasters. Historically, human responses were largely reactive and based on traditional coping mechanisms. However, with increasing awareness and technological advancements, India has moved towards a more comprehensive and proactive disaster management system.
Human Response to Hazards and Disasters in India
Historically, human responses to disasters in India were largely based on traditional knowledge and coping mechanisms. These included:
- Community-based coping: Local communities developed strategies to deal with specific hazards, such as building houses on stilts in flood-prone areas or using traditional water harvesting techniques during droughts.
- Religious and cultural practices: Many communities attribute disasters to divine wrath and perform rituals to appease deities.
- Social networks: Families and communities relied on each other for support and assistance during times of crisis.
Evolution of Disaster Management in India
The approach to disaster management in India has evolved significantly over time:
Pre-Independence Era
Disaster management was largely ad-hoc and relief-centric, with limited institutional support. Focus was primarily on providing immediate relief to affected populations.
Post-Independence Era (1947-1990s)
The focus remained on relief and rehabilitation. The establishment of the Civil Defence Organisation in 1968 was a step towards preparedness, but it lacked coordination and resources.
The Turning Point: Super Cyclone of 1999
The devastating Super Cyclone of 1999 exposed the inadequacies of the existing disaster management system. This led to a paradigm shift towards a proactive and holistic approach.
National Disaster Management Framework (2005 onwards)
The Disaster Management Act, 2005, marked a watershed moment. It established a comprehensive institutional framework for disaster management at the national, state, and local levels.
Institutional Framework for Disaster Management
| Level | Institution | Role |
|---|---|---|
| National | National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) | Policy formulation, coordination, and guidelines. |
| State | State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) | Implementation of NDMA guidelines, state-level planning, and coordination. |
| District | District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) | Local-level planning, implementation, and coordination. |
| Local | Local Panchayats/Municipalities | First responders, community-level preparedness, and relief distribution. |
Phases of Disaster Management
- Prevention: Reducing the causes of disasters (e.g., land-use planning, environmental protection).
- Mitigation: Reducing the severity of disasters (e.g., construction of flood control structures, earthquake-resistant buildings).
- Preparedness: Preparing for disasters (e.g., early warning systems, evacuation plans, training of personnel).
- Response: Immediate actions taken during a disaster (e.g., search and rescue, medical assistance, relief distribution).
- Recovery: Long-term actions taken to restore normalcy (e.g., reconstruction, rehabilitation, economic recovery).
Challenges in Disaster Management in India
- Lack of Coordination: Poor coordination between different agencies and levels of government.
- Inadequate Funding: Insufficient allocation of funds for disaster management.
- Limited Awareness: Low levels of awareness among the public about disaster preparedness.
- Vulnerability of Marginalized Communities: Disproportionate impact of disasters on vulnerable populations.
- Climate Change: Increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events due to climate change.
- Data Gaps: Lack of reliable data on hazard vulnerability and risk assessment.
Conclusion
India has made significant strides in disaster management since the 1999 Super Cyclone, establishing a robust institutional framework and adopting a proactive approach. However, challenges remain in terms of coordination, funding, awareness, and addressing the vulnerability of marginalized communities. Strengthening early warning systems, investing in resilient infrastructure, promoting community participation, and integrating climate change adaptation into disaster management plans are crucial for building a disaster-resilient India. A shift towards ‘risk reduction’ rather than solely ‘disaster response’ is essential for sustainable development.
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.