National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)

Introduction

• NDMA is the primary agency for handling and managing natural disasters in India.
• NDMA was established in 2005.
• Its necessity was realized after the 2004 tsunami.

History

• In 1999, a high-level committee was formed.
• After the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, a national committee was formed.
• In 2005, the Disaster Management Act was passed, leading to the formation of NDMA.

Structure

• The Prime Minister is the chairman of NDMA.
• There can be a maximum of 9 members.
• Each member holds the rank of a Cabinet Minister.
• It operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Objectives and Functions

• Conduct effective management and relief operations for disasters.
• Integrate disaster management into development projects.
• Develop technical institutions and legal frameworks.
• Develop contemporary forecasting and warning systems.
• Assess and monitor disasters.
• Coordinate with various ministries and departments.

Key Points

• NDMA represents the highest quality disaster management in the country.
• It works under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• NDMA's main priorities are: preparing beforehand for disasters, managing them effectively, and ensuring sustainable development.
• It also collaborates with other countries on disaster management.

Annual Report

• NDMA presents the details of all its activities in its annual report.
• This report is presented in Parliament and is debated upon.

Conclusion

The primary objective of NDMA is to prepare a strong and effective mechanism to tackle natural disasters. It plays a vital role in the direction of disaster management in the country by working in coordination with various ministries and departments.