DISASTER MANAGEMENT AMENDMENT BILL 2024: POLITY
NEWS: Parliament passes Disaster Management Amendment Bill 2024
WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?
The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill 2024 strengthens India's disaster management framework by empowering NDMA, SDMA, and state governments to enhance preparedness and response. It introduces new measures such as the creation of urban disaster management authorities and the formation of State Disaster Response Forces, while addressing emerging disaster risks.
Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill 2024: Key Points
Background
• The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 amends the Disaster Management Act, 2005, which was designed to provide a comprehensive framework for disaster management in India.
• The Disaster Management Act (2005) established three key bodies:
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA)
District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA)
• These authorities are responsible for managing disaster-related activities at the national, state, and district levels.
Key Highlights of the Bill
1. Preparation of Disaster Management Plans:
• The Bill changes the responsibility for preparing disaster management plans. Under the amended Bill, the NDMA and SDMA are tasked with preparing disaster management plans.
• Previously, the National and State Executive Committees were responsible for creating these plans.
2. Expanded Functions of NDMA and SDMA:
• The Bill adds several functions for both NDMA and SDMA:
Taking periodic stock of disaster risks: Including emerging risks, particularly those from extreme climate events.
Providing technical assistance to authorities at the district and local levels.
Recommending guidelines for minimum standards of relief during disasters.
Preparing disaster databases: Both national and state disaster databases will be developed to facilitate data-driven decision-making and preparedness.
3. Disaster Database:
• The Bill mandates the creation of a comprehensive disaster database at both the national and state levels. This will serve as a key tool for better disaster management and informed decision-making.
4. Urban Disaster Management Authorities:
• The Bill empowers the state government to create an Urban Disaster Management Authority for state capitals and cities with municipal corporations.
• This new authority will focus on disaster preparedness and response in urban areas, complementing the work of the existing District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMA).
5. Formation of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF):
• The Bill gives the state government the authority to constitute an SDRF.
• The state government will also define the functions of the SDRF and set the terms of service for its members.
• This initiative aims to enhance the response capacity of states in handling disasters effectively.
6. Statutory Status to Existing Committees:
• The Bill grants statutory status to existing bodies:
National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC): This body will serve as the nodal agency for dealing with major disasters that have serious or national implications.
High-Level Committee (HLC): This committee will focus on providing financial assistance to state governments during times of disaster.
7. Appointments to NDMA:
• The Bill empowers the NDMA to specify the number and category of officers and employees needed to support the authority.
• NDMA will also have the power to appoint experts and consultants as necessary to strengthen its operational capacity, subject to the central government’s approval.
Concerns Raised
• Centralization of Power: Several opposition members have raised concerns that the amendments could lead to centralization of power, undermining the autonomy of state governments in disaster management.
• Overlapping Authorities: The Bill gives more powers to the new Urban Disaster Management Authority, which could overlap with the responsibilities of the already existing District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA). Critics argue that this could create inefficiencies and confusion in disaster management at the local level.
Conclusion
• Addressing Emerging Disasters: The amendments are aimed at tackling the new kinds of disasters emerging due to global warming and climate change, which have altered the nature and frequency of disasters in India.
• Strengthening Institutions: The government believes that the strengthening of disaster management institutions and making them more accountable will help in effectively addressing the growing challenges posed by disasters.
• Aimed at Accountability: By introducing clearer structures and empowering local bodies, the Bill seeks to enhance disaster preparedness and response across different levels of governance.
Source: https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Mar/25/parliament-passes-disaster-management-amendment-bill-2024