Disaster management:-

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a meeting of state and Union Territory ministers of disaster management in New Delhi, where he unveiled three major schemes aimed at bolstering India's disaster management capabilities. These schemes, with a combined budget of over Rs 8,000 crore, encompass the modernization of fire brigade services nationwide, flood mitigation measures in seven major cities, and prevention of landslides in 17 states.

Emphasizing the importance of disaster preparedness, Shah urged all states to prioritize the safety of their citizens and strive for zero loss of life due to disasters. The first scheme entails an allocation of approximately Rs 5,000 crore for the modernization and expansion of fire brigade services in all states. A detailed plan has been prepared and will be shared with the respective states.

To address the risk of flooding in urban areas, Rs 2,500 crore will be disbursed for flood mitigation measures in seven major cities, namely Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Pune. Shah assured the ministers that a detailed plan would be provided to these cities to combat the threat effectively.

Furthermore, the central government will allocate nearly Rs 825 crore to tackle landslides in 17 states. Recognizing the evolving nature of disasters, Shah stressed the need for continuous expansion of disaster preparedness efforts, as disasters change in nature and intensity over time.

Shah also highlighted the visit of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to states where seven nuclear power stations are being constructed. Strict protocols have been issued to these states to prevent any potential disaster incidents. The Home Minister urged these states to prioritize disaster prevention measures before the commissioning and power generation of nuclear plants.

Commending the collaborative efforts of the central government and state administrations, Shah referred to the successful management of the Covid-19 pandemic under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He cited this as an exemplary demonstration of unified disaster response, emphasizing the transition from relief-oriented and reactionary approaches to proactive disaster management strategies.

In response to suggestions from state ministers to enhance compensation for farmers affected by natural disasters, Shah assured a thorough examination of the matter by the central government. He also urged states to allocate greater budgetary provisions for this purpose.

Furthermore, Shah emphasized the importance of implementing key policies related to disaster prevention, such as the model fire bill, disaster prevention policy, thunderstorm and lightning policy, and cold wave policy. He urged states to prioritize these policies and formulate comprehensive work plans accordingly.

Concluding his address, Shah highlighted the success of the 'Aapda Mitra' scheme, wherein one lakh youth volunteers are being trained to handle calamities in 350 disaster-Prone districts across India. This initiative has yielded positive results, further reinforcing the nation's disaster management capabilities.

With these new schemes and concerted efforts by the central government and states, India aims to strengthen its disaster management infrastructure and minimize the impact of natural calamities on its citizens.

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