In December 2005, the Indian government passed the Disaster Management Act, establishing the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) as the apex body for disaster management in India. Mandated to ensure a holistic and integrated approach, it is led by the Prime Minister, while State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) are led by respective Chief Ministers.
Disaster Management Act, 2005
- Institutional Mechanism: Establishes coordination mechanisms at national, state, and district levels.
- National Authority: Provides for the NDMA and a National Executive Committee (NEC) as an advisory body. It approves policies and plans prepared by various GoI departments.
- State & District Levels: Mandates the establishment of SDMA (for every state), SEC (State Executive Committee), and DDMA (for every district).
- NIDM & NDRF: Establishment of the National Institute of Disaster Management, National Disaster Response Force, and the National Disaster Response Fund.
About NDMA
Evolution & Establishment:
- 1999: High Powered Committee recommendations.
- 2001: National Committee formed after Gujarat Earthquake.
- 2005: Disaster Management Act passed after the 2004 Tsunami.
- 2005: NDMA constituted by an Executive Order (Apex Body).
- 2006: NDMA notified under the provisions of the Act.
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Home Affairs.
Objectives:
- Build resilience at all levels through knowledge, assessment, and monitoring of risks.
- Mitigation based on technology, traditional wisdom, and environmental sustainability.
- Develop contemporary early warning systems backed by IT and productive partnerships with media.
Composition:
- Chairperson: Prime Minister (Ex-officio). Nominates all other members.
- Members: Not exceeding 9 members (Status of Minister of State).
- Vice-chairperson: Designated by the PM from the members (Status of Cabinet Minister).
Functions of NDMA
- Approval of Plan: Approve the National Plan and plans from various GoI Ministries.
- Guidelines: Lay down guidelines for SDMAs to follow with the State Plan.
- Coordination: Coordinate enforcement and implementation of policy.
- Funding: Recommend the provision of funds for mitigation.
- International Support: Support for countries affected by major disasters.
- Relief Standards: Lay down minimum standards of relief for affected persons.
- Financial Relief: Recommend loan repayment relief or concessional fresh loans for victims.
- NDRF Control: General superintendence, direction, and control of the NDRF.
Policy and Mission-Mode Approach
NDMA utilizes a collaborative process involving Central ministries, States, and stakeholders. It aligns with international frameworks including:
- International Strategy for Disaster Reduction
- Rio Declaration & Millennium Development Goals
- Hyogo Framework 2005-2015
Foundational Themes:
- Community-based management and last-mile integration.
- Consolidation of past initiatives and best practices.
- Multi-sectoral synergy and international cooperation.
State & District Disaster Management Authorities
| Feature | SDMA (State Level) | DDMA (District Level) |
|---|---|---|
| Establishment | Established under DM Act, 2005 for every state. | Established under DM Act, 2005 for every district. |
| Chairperson | Chief Minister (Ex-officio). | Collector / District Magistrate / Deputy Commissioner (Ex-officio). |
| Co-Chairperson | N/A | Elected representative of local authority. In districts with Zilla Parishad, the Chairperson of Zilla Parishad. |
| Tribal Areas | N/A | Chief Executive Member of District Council (6th Schedule). |
| Composition | Max 9 members (including CM). Chairperson of SEC is the ex-officio CEO. | Max 7 members. Includes CEO of DDMA, SP, and Chief Medical Officer. |
DDMA Specific Functions
- Prepare District Disaster Management and Response plans.
- Identify vulnerable areas and monitor implementation of National/State policies.
- Organize specialized training and community awareness programmes.
- Set up, maintain, and upgrade early warning mechanisms.
- Identify buildings that can be used as relief centres.
- Advise and coordinate activities of Govt departments, NGOs, and statutory bodies.
Conclusion
The National and State Disaster Management Authorities serve as crucial institutions for coordinating response and mitigation efforts. By facilitating collaboration among stakeholders and ensuring effective preparedness at all levels, they enhance disaster resilience and minimize the impact of calamities on Indian communities.
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