New Delhi: In a major policy reform, the Rajya Sabha has passed the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aiming to modernize India’s disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies. This landmark legislation introduces key reforms that enhance governance, financial mechanisms, and proactive risk management to address emerging disaster threats, including climate change and cyber vulnerabilities.

Historical Background of the Disaster Management Act

India’s disaster management framework has evolved significantly over the decades. Prior to the enactment of a dedicated disaster management law, disaster response was largely reactive, with relief efforts being coordinated through ad hoc government initiatives. The turning point came in 2004 when the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami exposed severe gaps in India’s disaster preparedness. In response, the government enacted the Disaster Management Act, 2005, which established the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) to create a structured and institutionalized approach toward disaster prevention, mitigation, and response.

The 2005 Act provided a comprehensive legal framework for disaster risk reduction and response at the national, state, and district levels. It mandated the creation of the National Policy on Disaster Management, which was adopted in 2009, emphasizing the need for preparedness, early warning systems, and a community-centric approach. However, over the years, experts and policymakers identified several gaps in the Act, particularly regarding mitigation funding, climate resilience, and the inclusion of modern threats such as pandemics and cybersecurity risks. These concerns led to the formulation of the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which aims to bridge these gaps and strengthen India’s disaster governance.

Key Provisions of the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024

1. Creation of the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF)

The amendment establishes the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF), distinct from the existing National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). While NDRF focuses on post-disaster relief, the NDMF will allocate resources specifically for pre-disaster mitigation and resilience-building projects, ensuring better preparedness for natural and human-made disasters.

2. Strengthened Role of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)

Under the new framework, NDMA receives expanded authority to oversee disaster mitigation projects, set compliance standards, and enforce penalties for non-compliance. The strengthened mandate enables NDMA to proactively guide disaster risk reduction at national and state levels.

3. Integration of Climate Change Considerations

Recognizing the increasing impact of climate change on disaster frequency and severity, the bill mandates climate risk assessments as part of disaster planning. This provision ensures that national and state disaster management plans incorporate adaptation measures to mitigate long-term risks posed by climate variability.

4. Broadened Definition of Disasters

The amendment revises the definition of disasters to include pandemics, industrial hazards, and cybersecurity threats. This expansion reflects the evolving nature of risks in the 21st century and positions India’s disaster management framework to address contemporary challenges effectively.

5. Strict Compliance Measures and Penalties

The bill introduces stringent compliance requirements, imposing financial penalties on state governments and institutions that fail to adhere to disaster preparedness mandates. These measures aim to enhance accountability and encourage adherence to disaster mitigation protocols.

Government’s Rationale Behind the Amendments

During the parliamentary debate, the Union Minister for Home Affairs emphasized that the amendments were necessary to modernize India’s disaster response strategy. He noted that the existing Disaster Management Act of 2005 primarily focused on post-disaster relief, whereas the new bill prioritizes pre-disaster mitigation, minimizing loss of life and economic disruptions.

The government underscored India’s vulnerability to recurring floods, cyclones, earthquakes, and pandemics, arguing that the new provisions would improve institutional preparedness. The minister also highlighted that the inclusion of climate resilience and cybersecurity threats in the definition of disasters was a crucial step toward future-proofing India’s disaster management framework.

Opposition’s Concerns and Parliamentary Debate

The bill sparked extensive discussions in the Rajya Sabha, with opposition leaders raising the following concerns:

• State Autonomy vs. Centralized Control: Several opposition members argued that the bill grants excessive authority to NDMA, potentially undermining the decision-making powers of state disaster management agencies. They called for clearer guidelines on the coordination between central and state governments.
• Financial Implications for States: Some lawmakers expressed apprehension regarding the financial burden imposed on states, especially with the introduction of penalties for non-compliance. They urged the central government to increase financial assistance for state-led disaster mitigation projects.
• Cybersecurity Inclusion in Disaster Management: While many members welcomed the broadened definition of disasters, some questioned whether cybersecurity threats should fall under the domain of disaster management or be addressed through dedicated cybersecurity agencies.

Despite these reservations, the bill was approved by a majority vote, demonstrating strong parliamentary backing for its provisions.

Implications and Future Prospects

The passage of the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is expected to bring several transformational changes:

• Improved Disaster Preparedness: The introduction of the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF) will enable better funding for resilience-building initiatives, shifting focus from relief to proactive disaster prevention.
• Stronger Governance Mechanisms: NDMA’s expanded role ensures more effective enforcement of disaster management policies, reducing lapses in preparedness at the state and local levels.
• Climate-Resilient Planning: By embedding climate risk assessments into disaster management strategies, India strengthens its ability to adapt to climate-induced hazards, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
• Challenges in Implementation: While the bill sets a strong legislative foundation, its success will depend on adequate funding, seamless coordination between central and state authorities, and the establishment of clear implementation frameworks.

Next Steps and Legislative Process

Following its approval in the Rajya Sabha, the bill will now be presented in the Lok Sabha for deliberation. If passed, it will proceed to the President for formal assent before becoming law. Meanwhile, the government is expected to release guidelines detailing the operational aspects of the newly introduced provisions, particularly the implementation of the National Disaster Mitigation Fund and compliance enforcement mechanisms.

Conclusion

The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, represents a significant legislative milestone in India’s disaster governance. By prioritizing mitigation, integrating climate adaptation, and enforcing stricter compliance measures, the bill aims to create a resilient national framework capable of addressing modern disaster risks. While concerns over state autonomy and financial implications persist, effective implementation of the law will be crucial in ensuring long-term disaster preparedness and risk reduction across the country.

FAQs on the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024