NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY (NDMA)

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Context

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) organised a one-day Consultative workshop for 'Forest Fire Management in India' yesterday in New Delhi in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change.

About

The NDMA is the apex body for disaster managementin the country.
It works under the administrative control of the Union Ministryof Home Affairs.
The Government of India, recognizing the importance of disaster management as a national priority, had set up a High Powered Committee in 1999 and a National Committee in 2001 after the Gujarat earthquake, to make recommendations on the preparation of disaster management plans and suggest effective mitigation mechanisms.
After the Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004, the Government of India took a defining step in the legislative history of the country by enacting the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
The Act provided for the creation of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to spearhead and implement a holistic and integrated approach to disaster management in the country.
The NDMA consists of a chairperson (Prime Minister) and other members, not exceeding nine.

Aims and Objectives

To promote a culture of prevention, preparedness and resilienceat all levels through knowledge, innovation and education.
To encourage mitigation measures based on technology, traditional wisdomand environmental sustainability.
To approve plans prepared by the Ministries or Departments of the Government of Indiain accordance with the National Plan.
To mainstream disaster management into the developmental planning
To establish institutional and techno-legal frameworks to createan enabling regulatory environment and a compliance regime.
To ensure an efficient mechanism for identification, assessment and monitoring of disaster risks.
To lay down policies on disaster management.
To develop contemporary forecasting and early warning systems backedby responsive and failsafe communication with information technology support.
To ensure efficient response and relief with a caring approach towardsthe needs of the vulnerable sections of the society.
To undertake reconstruction as an opportunity to build disaster resilient structures and habitat for ensuring safer living.
To promote a productive and proactive partnership with the media for disaster management.