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Notes

Disaster Management

Definition/Introduction

Disaster management refers to the systematic process of planning, organizing, coordinating, and implementing measures to prevent, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. This process encompasses both natural and man-made disasters.

Constitutional Provisions

**Article 21**: Protection of Life and Personal Liberty. This article is often invoked in disaster-related cases to ensure the right to life in disaster situations.

**Article 48A**: Protection and improvement of environment and safeguarding of forests and wild life. This article is relevant in the context of environmental disasters.

Historical Evolution

The importance of disaster management in India gained prominence after the Bhopal Gas Tragedy in 1984, which highlighted the need for a comprehensive framework. The Disaster Management Act was enacted in 2005 following the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004 and other major disasters that impacted the country.

Classification/Types

1. **Natural Disasters**: Include earthquakes, floods, cyclones, landslides, droughts, etc.

Example: The 2001 Gujarat earthquake.

2. **Man-Made Disasters**: Include industrial accidents, nuclear accidents, and terrorism-related disasters.

Example: The Bhopal Gas Tragedy in 1984.

Important Provisions/Features

Establishment of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.

Framework for disaster risk reduction.

Emphasis on community-based disaster management.

Role of the Armed Forces in disaster response.

Landmark Judgments

**MC Mehta vs. Union of India** (1987): Addressed the need for proper safety measures in industries to prevent disasters.

**Narmada Bachao Andolan vs. Union of India** (2000): Highlighted the environmental impact of large-scale projects and the need for disaster management.

Amendments

The Disaster Management Act, 2005 has been amended to include provisions for the establishment of regional disaster management centers.

Comparison Tables

| Feature | Natural Disasters | Man-Made Disasters |

|---------|------------------|--------------------|

| Cause | Natural Phenomena | Human Actions |

| Response| Predominantly Government-led | Often involves industry and government |

| Example | Earthquakes, Floods | Bhopal Gas Tragedy |

UPSC Exam Focus

Frequently asked aspects include the role of NDMA, provisions of the Disaster Management Act, and types of disasters.

Tricky areas often include distinguishing between natural and man-made disasters and their management strategies.

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Key Concepts

Disaster: A disaster is a sudden, calamitous event that causes great damage or loss.

Natural Disasters: Disasters caused by natural phenomena, e.g., earthquakes, floods.

Man-Made Disasters: Disasters caused by human actions, e.g., industrial accidents.

Disaster Management: The systematic process of planning, organizing, coordinating, and implementing measures to prevent, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.

National Policy on Disaster Management: Adopted in 2009, outlines the framework for disaster management in India.

Disaster Management Act, 2005: Provides for the establishment of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA): Established in each state to ensure preparedness and mitigation.

District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA): Operates at the district level to coordinate response efforts.

Important Facts

•[2005] Disaster Management Act enactedEstablishes NDMA and SDMAs for effective response to disasters.

•[2009] National Policy on Disaster Management adoptedFramework for disaster management in India.

•[1984] Bhopal Gas TragedyHighlighted the need for industrial safety and disaster management policies.

•[2001] 2001 Gujarat EarthquakeLed to significant reforms in disaster management practices in India.

•[1987] MC Mehta caseLegal precedent for industrial safety measures and environmental protection.

•[2000] Narmada Bachao Andolan caseEmphasized the need for assessing environmental impact in disaster management.