In a landmark move to bolster disaster management protocols across the nation, the Indian government is set to introduce the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha on August 1. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will present the new bill in both houses of Parliament, marking a significant step towards enhancing the country’s resilience to natural and man-made disasters.
The proposed legislation aims to establish a detailed “disaster database at national and state levels” and create an “Urban Disaster Management Authority” for state capitals and major cities with Municipal Corporations. This initiative seeks to provide a structured and comprehensive approach to disaster management, ensuring efficient data collection and resource allocation.
The database will include critical information such as disaster assessments, fund allocation details, expenditure reports, preparedness and mitigation plans, and a risk register categorized by type and severity of risk. These measures align with the policies set by the Central Government, aiming to streamline disaster response and recovery processes.
One of the key features of the amendment is the empowerment of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) to independently prepare disaster plans at their respective levels. This replaces the previous framework, which relied on plans made by the National Executive Committee and State Executive Committees. The NDMA will also have the authority to appoint experts and consultants as necessary to fulfill its functions effectively.
Additionally, the NDMA will be mandated to regularly assess a broad spectrum of disaster risks, including those arising from extreme climate events and other factors, even if such disasters have not yet occurred. This proactive approach aims to ensure the nation is better prepared for potential future threats.
The new legislation will grant statutory recognition to existing bodies such as the National Crisis Management Committee and the High-Level Committee. Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the necessity of updating the Disaster Management Act, originally enacted in 2005, to integrate disaster management more effectively into development plans. This update aligns with the recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission.
Moreover, the bill proposes the establishment of a “State Disaster Response Force” by state governments. A new Section 60A will empower both the Central and State Governments to direct individuals to take necessary actions or refrain from them to mitigate disaster impacts, with penalties for non-compliance not exceeding ₹10,000.
The introduction of the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening disaster management frameworks and enhancing the nation’s preparedness for future challenges. This comprehensive approach aims to mitigate the impacts of disasters, safeguard communities, and ensure a swift and effective response to emergencies.
Read Now: Millions of Dementia Cases Could Be Prevented or Delayed by Addressing Risk Factors
