Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill 2024, Key Objectives

Context:

• Recently, the central government introduced the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha.
• The Bill is introduced in the context of climate-induced disasters.

Background of Disaster Management Bill

• The original Disaster Management Act, 2005 aimed to create institutional mechanisms for disaster management, prevention, and mitigation.
• The Act established Authorities and Committees at national, state, and district levels for coordinated disaster response.

About Disaster Management Bill

• Purpose: To amend the Disaster Management Act, 2005 for enhanced disaster management capabilities.
• Objectives:
  • Establish Urban Disaster Management Authorities for state capitals and large cities with Municipal Corporations.
  • Strengthen the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities.
  • Create a “State Disaster Response Force” by the State Government.

Key Amendments Proposed in the Bill

• Urban Disaster Management Authority: Establishment in state capitals and large cities with Municipal Corporations to enhance urban disaster management.
• Strengthening NDMA and State Authorities: Empower NDMA and State Disaster Management Authorities to prepare disaster plans at national and state levels.
  • These responsibilities previously held by the National Executive Committee and State Executive Committees.
• State Disaster Response Force: Provision for a dedicated force at the state level for immediate disaster response.
• Clarity and Convergence: Bring more clarity in roles and responsibilities of various Authorities and Committees.
  • Statutory status for pre-Act organisations like the National Crisis Management Committee and the High-Level Committee.
• Disaster Database: Creation of a comprehensive disaster database at both national and state levels.

Expected Outcomes

• Enhanced coordination and effectiveness in disaster management across urban areas.
• Improved disaster preparedness and response through institutional strengthening and dedicated disaster response forces.
• Better data management for informed decision-making in disaster management.

What are the Concerns Related to Recent Amendments?

• Concerns Over Financial Centralization: The Bill dilutes the wording of the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) by removing specific purposes for which the fund shall be used.
  • Excessive centralization in decision-making related to disaster funds has been a significant concern, especially during severe disasters.
  • There have been instances of delayed responses from the central government, as seen in the denial and delayed disbursement of disaster relief funds to Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
• Inadequate Definition of ‘Disaster’: Globally, there is consensus to classify heatwaves as climate-related disasters due to their significant impact on ecosystems and human health.
  • However, the Act failed to accommodate climate-induced disasters like heatwaves.
    • This decision aligns with the 15th Finance Commission’s stance, which does not support expanding the scope of notified disasters.
  • And also does not consider the localised and prolonged nature of climate-induced disasters, which may have similar impacts to traditional disasters like floods.

Conclusion

To truly enhance disaster management, there is a need for a more balanced approach that empowers states, ensures financial preparedness, and aligns with global standards in recognizing and responding to emerging climate-related threats.

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