UPSC » Disaster Management Notes » National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)

With the help of all government departments, non-governmental organisations, and the general public, the Indian government works to strengthen the country’s commitment to lessen the harm and devastation brought on by natural and man-made disasters. A technology-driven, proactive, multi-hazard, and multi-sectoral approach for creating a safer, disaster-resistant, and dynamic India is intended to achieve this.

NDMA: 

  • National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is an apex body for disaster management in India. It is a statutory body created under the National Disaster Management Act, 2005, under the leadership of the Prime Minister of India.
  • For disaster management to be effective and timely, the NDMA must develop policies, plans, and guidelines. NDMA has the following responsibilities:
    • Put in place policies to manage disasters.
    • Approve the disaster management plan of the country.
    • Defining guidelines for the preparation of the state plan by the state authorities.
    • Formulate recommendations for the various Ministries and Departments of the Indian Government to follow in incorporating disaster prevention and mitigation measures into their various development plans and initiatives.
    • Enforce and implement disaster management policies and plans.
    • The provision of mitigation funds is
    • recommended.
    • The Central Government may determine ways to assist other countries that have been affected by major disasters.
    • Other steps that may be necessary for disaster prevention, mitigation, or preparing for or building capacity to deal with disaster situations or disasters may be considered necessary.
    • Specify broad policies, guidelines, and procedures for the National Institute of Disaster Management.

Organisation Structure of NDMA: 

  • NDMA’s ex-officio chairman is the Prime Minister.
  • The cabinet minister is the Vice-Chairman.
  • In addition to providing secretarial support, the NDMA Secretariat also provides continuity.
  • Along with this, NDMA has 8 Ministers of State as its members.