Notified Disaster

July 28, 2024

Recently, the Minister of state for Union ministry of science and technology informed Lok Sabha that 15th Finance Commission declined to include heatwaves on the notified disaster list.

About Notified Disaster:

  • In India, the Disaster Management Act, 2005,defines a disaster as a "catastrophe, mishap, calamity or grave occurrence" arising from natural or man-made causes that results in substantial loss of life, destruction of property, or damage to the environment.
  • Currently 12 disasters are classified as Notified Disaster namely: Cyclone, drought, earthquake, fire, flood, tsunami, hailstorm, landslide, avalanche, cloud burst, pest attack and frost and cold wave.
  • Presently the notified list of disasters eligible for National Disaster Response Fund/State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) assistance.

What are Heat waves?

  • The basic criteria for IMD to declare a heatwave are when a place's temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius (°C) in the plains, 37°C in coastal areas, and 30°C in the hills.
  • These temperature values are the thresholds established by the IMD for the declaration of heatwaves in India.

Key facts about National Disaster Management Authority 

  • The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) plays a crucial role in laying down policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management in India.
  • It aims to promote a national resolve to mitigate the damage and destruction caused by natural and man-made disasters through sustained and collective efforts.