Disaster relief funds from the Centre serve as a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil and devastation wrought by natural calamities or unforeseen crises. These funds, allocated by governmental bodies at the national level, are instrumental in mitigating the immediate aftermath of disasters, offering solace to affected communities, and facilitating the arduous journey towards recovery and rebuilding. They embody a collective commitment to solidarity, resilience, and compassion, symbolizing the nation’s unwavering support for its citizens in times of dire need. As a lifeline for those grappling with the profound impact of disasters, these funds represent not only financial assistance but also serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of unity and empathy that binds us together as a nation.
Tags: GS Paper – 3- Disaster Management
Context:
- The recent standoff between Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and the central government over the release of the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF), India’s disaster management framework, reveals significant vulnerabilities.
- Delays in aid distribution and hindrances in recovery efforts underscore the pressing need for reforms in the system.
About National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF):
- Established under Section 46 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF) offers financial aid to states experiencing severe disasters as any significant event, natural or man-made, causing substantial loss of life, property damage, or environmental degradation beyond community coping capacity.
- It established the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) to manage disasters.
- These entities collaborate with district-level authorities to create an integrated disaster management system. The State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) and the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF) provide financial assistance to states, established after the 2004 tsunami.
About State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF):
- The State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), established under Section 48(1)(a) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, serves as the primary fund for State Governments to address notified disasters promptly.
- The SDRF is funded jointly by the Central Government and State Governments in a ratio of 75:25 for general category states/UTs and 90:10 for special category states/UTs (North-Eastern and Himalayan States).
- The SDRF encompasses both the State Disaster Response Fund (80% of SDRMF) and the State Disaster Mitigation Fund (20% of SDRMF), as per the 15th Finance Commission’s recommendations.
- Additionally, states can allocate up to 10% of the funds for local disasters not included in the notified list, under specified conditions.
Fund Released to States:
- NDRF Funding: Operational guidelines from January 2022 allocate funding for the NDRF from 2021-22 to 2025-26.
- Assistance Request: States lacking sufficient SDRF funds for a national calamity beyond their capacity can seek aid from the NDRF.
- Evaluation Process: The MHA or Ministry of Agriculture assesses the situation, potentially forming an IMCT to recommend additional funds.
- Central Committee Review: A sub-committee of the National Executive Committee determines available funding, leading to a high-level committee chaired by the Home Minister authorising NDRF releases.
Significance of NDRF/SDRF:
- Rapid Response: Ensures quick and coordinated disaster response, aiding in timely deployment of resources to save lives and ease suffering.
- Resource Accessibility: Dedicated funds reduce delays in accessing essential resources like emergency supplies and personnel.
- Recovery Assistance: Supports initial recovery efforts, facilitating swift restoration of infrastructure, livelihoods, and vital services.
- Resilience Enhancement: Investing in disaster response builds community resilience and bolsters preparedness for future calamities.
Challenges Faced by NDRF:
- Funding Sustainability: Securing adequate and sustainable funding to address the increasing frequency and severity of disasters remains a persistent challenge for NDRF.
- Governance Efficiency: Robust governance mechanisms are essential to ensure efficient allocation and utilisation of NDRF funds, preventing mismanagement and corruption.
- Resource Equity: Achieving equitable distribution of NDRF resources across diverse regions and vulnerable populations presents logistical and administrative hurdles.
- Coordination Complexity: Coordinating efforts among various agencies, including government departments and NGOs, is crucial to optimise resource deployment and avoid duplication of efforts.
Efforts to Enhance NDRF:
- Policy Updates: Regular review and revision of disaster management policies and funding mechanisms to adapt to evolving risks and priorities.
- Capacity Enhancement: Investment in training, technology, and infrastructure to bolster disaster response capabilities and preparedness.
- Risk Mitigation: Emphasis on disaster risk reduction strategies, including early warning systems and resilient infrastructure development.
- Community Engagement: Public awareness campaigns and community education initiatives to promote disaster preparedness and resilience-building.
The Fifteenth Finance Commission has outlined specific allocation breakdowns for SDRF utilisation:
- 40% for response and relief works.
- 30% for recovery and reconstruction efforts.
- 10% for preparedness and capacity-building initiatives.
Conclusion:
Hence, National Disaster Relief Funds (NDRF) are pivotal in facilitating efficient disaster response and recovery efforts. Despite challenges, ongoing initiatives aimed at bolstering NDRF through increased funding, governance reforms, and community involvement are indispensable for fostering resilient societies capable of mitigating and addressing various disaster scenarios. By prioritising disaster preparedness and response, governments can minimise human suffering, safeguard livelihoods, and foster sustainable development in disaster-prone areas.
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Prelims:
Q1. Which one of the following is not a feature of Indian federalism? (2017)
(a) There is an independent judiciary in India.
(b) Powers have been clearly divided between the Centre and the States.
(c) The federating units have been given unequal representation in the Rajya Sabha.
(d) It is the result of an agreement among the federating units.
Ans: (d)
Mains:
Q:1 With reference to National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines, discuss the measures to be adopted to mitigate the impact of the recent incidents of cloudbursts in many places of Uttarakhand. (2016)
Source: (IE)
FAQs
Q: What are Disaster Relief Funds from the Centre?
Disaster Relief Funds from the Centre are financial allocations provided by the central government to assist states and regions affected by natural or man-made disasters. These funds aim to support relief and rehabilitation efforts in the aftermath of calamities such as floods, earthquakes, cyclones, or industrial accidents.
Q: How are Disaster Relief Funds allocated?
Allocation of Disaster Relief Funds typically follows a formula based on the severity and extent of the disaster, as well as the needs of the affected areas. The central government may also consider recommendations from expert committees and assessments conducted by relevant authorities to determine the allocation to each affected region.
Q: What can Disaster Relief Funds be used for?
Disaster Relief Funds can be used for a variety of purposes including but not limited to:
- Emergency response operations such as rescue, evacuation, and provision of immediate relief supplies like food, water, and shelter.
- Restoration of critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, power lines, and communication networks.
- Rehabilitation and reconstruction of homes, schools, hospitals, and other community facilities affected by the disaster.
- Support for livelihood restoration and economic recovery initiatives in the affected areas.
Q: How quickly are Disaster Relief Funds disbursed?
Disbursement of Disaster Relief Funds depends on various factors including the scale and complexity of the disaster, administrative processes, and coordination between the central and state governments. In most cases, the central government endeavors to expedite the release of funds to ensure timely assistance to the affected regions.
Q: Are there any accountability measures in place for Disaster Relief Funds?
Yes, there are stringent accountability measures in place to ensure transparency and proper utilization of Disaster Relief Funds. This includes regular monitoring and auditing of fund utilization by designated authorities, submission of utilization certificates by implementing agencies, and public disclosure of expenditure details to ensure accountability and prevent misuse of funds. Additionally, mechanisms for grievance redressal and public feedback may also be established to address any concerns regarding the utilization of relief funds.
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