Why in news?
Natural disasters such as cyclones, floods, and landslides regularly disrupt lives and livelihoods in India. In 2025 the government highlighted a shift from reactive relief to proactive resilience. Policies under the Fifteenth Finance Commission and national missions aim to build disaster‑ready infrastructure and communities.
India’s institutional framework
Disaster management in India is guided by the Disaster Management Act (2005). The National Disaster Management Authority prepares policies, while state and district authorities implement them. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) carries out search and rescue. Recently the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure was launched with global partners to share best practices.
Key features of the resilience strategy
- Financial innovation: The Fifteenth Finance Commission earmarked over ₹2 lakh crore for disaster risk reduction from 2021–26. Funds are allocated for preparedness, mitigation, response and reconstruction.
- Nature‑based solutions: Programmes promote restoring mangroves, wetlands and forests to act as natural buffers against storms and floods. Techniques like slope stabilisation with vegetation (“bio‑engineering”) reduce landslide risks.
- Technology adoption: Remote sensing, drones, satellite imagery and artificial intelligence help map risks, monitor weather and deliver early warnings. Mobile apps alert communities in real time.
- Capacity building: Training local volunteers, conducting mock drills and building geospatial labs improve readiness. Traditional knowledge of indigenous communities is integrated with scientific methods.
- Community‑centric preparedness: Emphasis is laid on public awareness campaigns and inclusive participation. Schools and self‑help groups receive training to act as first responders.
Challenges ahead
- Fragmented implementation: Responsibilities spread across multiple agencies can lead to duplication and delays. Integrating data and actions is crucial.
- Urban vulnerability: Rapid, often unplanned urbanisation strains drainage and leads to flooding and building collapses. Slum settlements are particularly at risk.
- Funding absorption: While funds are allocated, many states struggle to utilise them effectively due to bureaucratic hurdles and lack of trained personnel.
- Climate uncertainty: The intensity and frequency of extreme events are increasing with climate change, making past patterns less reliable for planning.
Way forward
- Develop integrated databases linking weather, land‑use and socio‑economic indicators. This helps in risk mapping and priority setting.
- Strengthen urban planning by enforcing building codes, expanding green spaces and improving drainage networks.
- Encourage insurance and disaster relief funds for farmers, small businesses and vulnerable groups.
- Promote public‑private partnerships to invest in resilient infrastructure and technology.
- Ensure that recovery and reconstruction adopt a “build back better” approach, incorporating resilience measures rather than simply restoring pre‑disaster conditions.