Disaster Management Amendment Bill 2024

March 27, 2025

The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill 2024 has recently been passed by the Indian Parliament. It aims to enhance the functionality of disaster management authorities at various levels. The Bill amends the Disaster Management Act of 2005, which established the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMA), and District Disaster Management Authorities.

Objective

The primary goal of the Bill is to strengthen the disaster management framework in India. It seeks to shift from a reactive approach to a proactive one. This includes risk reduction and improved real-time monitoring through artificial intelligence.

Structure of Disaster Management Authorities

The Bill outlines the roles of NDMA, SDMA, and District Disaster Management Authorities. Each authority is responsible for disaster management at their respective levels. NDMA operates at the national level while SDMA and district bodies function at state and local levels respectively.

Disaster Management Plans

Under the amended Bill, NDMA and SDMA are mandated to prepare disaster management plans themselves. Previously, this task was assigned to National and State Executive Committees. These plans are crucial for coordinating disaster response and recovery efforts.

New Functions of Authorities

The Bill introduces new responsibilities for NDMA and SDMA. They are now required to assess disaster risks, provide technical support to lower authorities, and develop national and state disaster databases. These databases will contain vital information on disaster risks, funding, and preparedness plans.

Urban Disaster Management Authorities

The Bill allows state governments to create Urban Disaster Management Authorities. These authorities will focus on disaster management in urban areas, particularly in state capitals and cities with municipal corporations.

State Disaster Response Force

The Bill empowers state governments to establish a State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). The SDRF will have defined functions and terms of service. This move aims to enhance local disaster response capabilities.

Statutory Status to Existing Committees

The Bill grants statutory status to existing bodies like the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) and the High Level Committee (HLC). The NCMC will coordinate responses to major disasters while the HLC will oversee financial assistance during disasters.

Appointments and Regulations

The Bill allows NDMA to specify the number and type of officers it requires. This change aims to streamline the appointment process and enhance operational efficiency.

Legislative Context and Debates

The passage of the Bill was met with various opinions. Supporters brought into light its potential to improve disaster management. Critics raised concerns about centralisation and funding allocation, particularly to opposition-ruled states.

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