NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) MCQs Quiz | Class 10

Understanding the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) serves as the apex body in India for disaster management. Established under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, its primary objective is to lead a holistic, proactive, multi-disaster oriented and technology-driven strategy for disaster management. It aims to build a safer and disaster-resilient India by developing a culture of prevention, preparedness, and mitigation.

Key Roles and Functions of NDMA:

• Policy Formulation: NDMA is responsible for laying down policies on disaster management. These policies guide the entire spectrum of disaster risk reduction and response efforts in the country.
• National Plan Approval: It approves the National Plan prepared by the National Executive Committee (NEC), which provides a framework for disaster management activities.
• Guidelines for Ministries: NDMA lays down guidelines for various Ministries or Departments of the Government of India regarding integrating disaster prevention or mitigation measures into their development plans and projects.
• Coordination: A critical role is to coordinate the enforcement and implementation of the disaster management policy and plan across different levels of government and agencies.
• Mitigation Fund Recommendation: It recommends the provision of funds for the purpose of mitigation activities.
• National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): NDMA guides and exercises control over the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), which is the specialized force for search, rescue, and relief operations.
• International Cooperation: It also plays a role in disaster management initiatives at the international level.
• Capacity Building: NDMA promotes and facilitates research and training for disaster management and organizes mock drills and awareness campaigns.

Coordination in Disasters:

Effective disaster management hinges on robust coordination among various stakeholders. NDMA ensures this through a structured hierarchical mechanism:

• National Level: NDMA, chaired by the Prime Minister, provides overall policy and guidance. The National Executive Committee (NEC), headed by the Union Home Secretary, assists NDMA in its functions and prepares the National Plan.
• State Level: State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs), chaired by the Chief Minister, formulate state-specific policies and plans. The State Executive Committee (SEC) supports the SDMA.
• District Level: District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs), chaired by the District Collector/Magistrate/Deputy Commissioner, are responsible for planning, implementation, and coordination of disaster management at the district level.

NDMA’s coordination efforts involve:

• Developing comprehensive national guidelines for different types of disasters.
• Ensuring that all levels of administration (Centre, State, District) have well-defined roles and responsibilities.
• Facilitating inter-agency cooperation among various governmental and non-governmental organizations, armed forces, and civil society.
• Mobilizing resources and deploying specialized teams like NDRF during emergencies.
• Promoting a ‘culture of preparedness’ where all agencies are ready to respond effectively.

Disaster Management Hierarchy:

Quick Revision Points:

• NDMA was established under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
• The Prime Minister of India is the ex-officio Chairperson of NDMA.
• Its main role is to formulate policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management.
• NDMA coordinates with SDMA at the state level and DDMA at the district level.
• It promotes a proactive, holistic, and integrated approach to disaster management.

Practice Questions:

1. Who is the ex-officio Chairperson of the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA)?
2. Which national body is primarily responsible for preparing the National Plan for Disaster Management in India?
3. What is the main purpose of the National Executive Committee (NEC) in the context of disaster management?
4. Which phase of disaster management focuses on reducing the impact of future disasters through long-term strategies?
5. The Disaster Management Act, which led to the formation of NDMA, was passed in which year?