Lightening as a natural disaster

What is Lightening:

• Lightning is a natural electrical discharge that occurs in the atmosphere during thunderstorms. 
• This discharge creates a bright flash of light that we see as lightning.  

Data on Lightning in India: 

• In India, every year more than 2500 people die due to lightning (Annual Report, NCRB).
• States in Eastern India come under the most severe lightning-affected zone.
• Lightning is a major cause of electrical power breakdowns and forest fires.
• It can cause damage to communication and computer equipment, and aircraft.

Natural Disaster in India: Criteria

• The disaster should be the result of natural phenomena beyond human control.
• It should result in serious harm, a loss of life, or interruption to the environment, infrastructure, or socioeconomic activity.
• The impact should be confirmed by the appropriate government agencies, academic institutions, or disaster management organisations.
• The concerned state or central government bodies in charge of disaster management should classify it as a natural disaster.

Why in news?

• Recently few States have demanded that “lightning” be declared a “natural disaster”.