The National Disaster Management Act, 2005 (NDMA) is a comprehensive legislation. It provides a framework for disaster management in India. The Act was enacted in response to the Gujarat earthquake of 2001. The NDMA establishes a National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs). They oversee disaster management at the national and state levels respectively.

Important Relevant Sections of NDMA 2005

Section 6: In Section 6, the NDMA Act of 2005 grants the authority to formulate national disaster management plans. It ensures that the state’s disaster management agencies actively implement these strategies.

Section 10: Section 10 entrusts the National Executive Committee (NEC) with the power to guide governments on necessary actions. This provision emphasizes a coordinated and centralized approach to disaster response.

Section 33: Section 33 states that the District Authority holds the authority to instruct district-level officers, departments, or local authorities to take preventive measures or mitigate the impact of disasters. The recipients of such directives are obligated to comply.

Penal Provisions: Furthermore, sections 51 to 60 of the Act outline penalties for specific offenses. Those obstructing officers or employees from carrying out their duties may face imprisonment, a fine, or both, with a maximum term of one year. If such obstruction results in loss of lives or imminent danger, the offender can be sentenced to up to two years in jail. These provisions emphasize the seriousness of hindering disaster response efforts.

Read Also: Governing bodies that were established under DMA 2005 include