The Disaster Management Act of 2005 (DMA 2005) is a law created by the Indian government to help deal with disasters and related issues more effectively. This act aims to ensure better management during challenging times and address various aspects connected to disasters.
The following governing bodies are established by DMA 2005:
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): The NDMA, led by the Prime Minister of India as its chairperson and comprising up to nine members, including a Vice-Chairperson, operates with a five-year tenure for its members. Its core responsibility is to establish policies, plans, and guidelines for effective disaster management, ensuring a well-coordinated response during emergencies.
National Executive Committee: The DMA authorizes the formation of a National Executive Committee (NEC), consisting of high-ranking government officials from various ministries such as home, health, power, finance, and agriculture. This committee is entrusted with crafting the National Disaster Management Plan for the entire country, with an annual mandate for review and updates to enhance preparedness.
State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA): The SDMA, headed by the Chief Minister and comprising eight members appointed by the Chief Minister, is tasked with formulating disaster plans specific to each state. As outlined in Section 28, the SDMA ensures that all state departments prepare disaster management plans in accordance with the guidelines set by National and State Authorities.
District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA): At the district level, the DDMA is chaired by the Collector, District Magistrate, or Deputy Commissioner. This authority plays a pivotal role in local disaster management efforts, ensuring a coordinated and swift response to potential threats within the district.
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): The NDRF, under the leadership of a Director-General appointed by the Central Government, is a frontline force dedicated to responding to imminent disasters. Notably, the NDRF has played crucial roles in various rescue operations, including the 2014 Kashmir floods and the 2018 Kerala floods, showcasing its effectiveness in managing and mitigating the impact of disasters on communities.
Read Also: Provisions of NDMA 2005
