What is Disaster Management and its importance in India

Explain the concept of Disaster Management and its importance in India in the current scenario.
Disaster management refers to the process of preparing for, responding to, and recovering from natural or man-made disasters. It involves a coordinated and integrated approach by various stakeholders including government, non-government organizations, communities, and individuals to minimize the adverse impact of disasters on human life, property, and the environment. In India, disaster management is of utmost importance considering its vulnerability to natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, cyclones, landslides, and man-made disasters such as industrial accidents and terrorism. The concept of disaster management in India was given a formal shape after the 2004 Tsunami, which highlighted the lack of preparedness and the need for a comprehensive plan for disaster management. The importance of disaster management in India can be summarized as follows:
  • Minimizing loss of life and property in case of disasters.
  • Quick response and effective relief measures during a disaster.
  • Building resilience and capacity of communities to cope with disasters.
  • Reducing the economic impact of disasters on the affected areas.
  • Creating awareness about disasters and their impact.
Moreover, with the changing climate patterns and increasing frequency of disasters, disaster management has become a crucial component of sustainable development. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) was established as the apex body responsible for disaster management in India. Through its various initiatives, the NDMA has been advocating for a culture of preparedness and resilience to disasters, emphasizing the importance of partnerships, capacity building, and innovation in disaster management.
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