Disaster and Disaster Management can be considered as the two sides of the same coin. Disasters are not new to mankind where it can be natural or human made. Whereas, Disaster Management means countering disasters by increasing preparedness through policy, programme and exercises. Recently, released National Disaster Risk Index points out that Delhi: most vulnerable UT, Maharashtra: most vulnerable State.
Recent Developments National Disaster Risk Index
Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project
New Mobile Applications to Broadcast Information
Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre
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Disaster as a Phenomenon
Disaster Management Act, 2005, defines “disaster” as catastrophe, mishap, calamity or grave occurrence in any area, arising from natural or man-made causes, or by accident or negligence which results in substantial loss of life or human suffering or damage to, and destruction of, property, or damage to, or degradation of, environment, and is of such a nature or magnitude as to be beyond the coping capacity of the community of the affected area.
Calamity Relief Fund
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Classification of Disasters
Governmental Agencies to Mitigate Disaster
Funding the NDRF & SDRF
Government Policies on Disaster Management
The Disaster Management Act
The Disaster Management Act, 2005 marks the institutionalization of paradigm shift in disaster management in India, from a relief-centric approach to one of proactive prevention, mitigation and preparedness.
National Policy on Disaster Management
The National Policy, 2009 suggests a multi-pronged approach for disaster risk reduction and mitigation consisting of the following:
Note: The Policy notes that while it is not possible to avoid natural hazards, adequate mitigation and disaster risk reduction measures can prevent the hazards becoming major disasters. |
Disaster Management Cycle
A holistic and integrated approach will be evolved towards disaster management with emphasis on building strategic partnerships at various levels. The themes underpinning the policy are (this policy is under preparatory stage):
Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction |
1989: International Decade for National Disaster Reduction (IDNDR) |
1994 : Yokohama Strategy and Plans of Action |
1999: International Strategy for Disaster Reduction |
Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-2015 |
Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 |
Sendai Framework sets Four Specific Priorities for Action