Disaster Management Act, 2024
The Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, addressed the Rajya Sabha on the Disaster Management Act, 2024, clarifying key points regarding state resources and central assistance.
Centralisation of Powers and Resource Allocation
- No Centralisation: Shah assured that there will be no centralisation of powers or discrimination against states in resource allocation.
- Disaster Management Funds: Emphasized that the cost of state government "freebies" cannot be covered by disaster management funds.
Finance Commission Norms
- Specified Norms: Finance Commission has defined norms for disaster relief, such as compensation amounts for destroyed properties.
- Scientific Method: Financial assistance is determined scientifically, ensuring no state receives less aid.
Allegations and Responses
- Bias Allegations: Shah refuted claims of bias, attributing perceptions to the 2005 UPA laws, which remain unchanged.
Specific Concerns from States
- Kerala's Fund Allocation: Concerns over insufficient allocation for frequent natural disasters.
- Centralisation Criticism: States like those represented by Trinamool Congress raised issues about excessive centralisation and fund disbursal criteria.
COVID-19 Management
- Vaccine Administration: India managed a successful vaccination drive despite political challenges.
- PM-CARES Usage: Funds were used for vital infrastructure like oxygen plants, with transparency assured.
Amendment Bill's Purpose
- Proactive Risk Reduction: Shift from reactive to proactive disaster management, utilizing AI-based monitoring.
- Federal Structure: No harm to federalism, as implementation is largely managed by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) in states.
