Points to Remember:
- Pre-Sendai Framework DRR measures in India
- Post-Sendai Framework DRR measures in India
- Key differences between Sendai Framework and Hyogo Framework
Introduction:
Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) involves systematic efforts to analyze and reduce the risks posed by natural hazards and human-induced disasters. India, a country highly vulnerable to a wide range of disasters (earthquakes, floods, cyclones, droughts, etc.), has undertaken significant DRR measures. The adoption of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 marked a significant shift in the global approach to DRR, influencing India’s strategies considerably. This answer will analyze the DRR measures implemented in India before and after the adoption of the Sendai Framework, highlighting its key differences from the preceding Hyogo Framework for Action (2005-2015). The approach will be primarily factual and analytical, drawing upon government reports and relevant literature.
Body:
Pre-Sendai Framework DRR Measures (Before 2015):
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Establishment (2005): The establishment of the NDMA was a landmark step. It provided a centralized, coordinating body for disaster management across various ministries and agencies. However, initial implementation faced challenges in coordination and resource allocation.
- State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs): Parallel state-level authorities were established, but their effectiveness varied significantly across states due to capacity constraints and resource disparities.
- Disaster Mitigation Programs: Various programs focused on specific hazards, such as flood control projects, drought mitigation strategies, and early warning systems for cyclones. However, these were often fragmented and lacked comprehensive integration.
- Focus on Response and Relief: Pre-Sendai efforts largely concentrated on post-disaster response and relief, with less emphasis on proactive risk reduction and prevention.
- Limited Community Participation: Community participation in DRR planning and implementation remained limited, hindering the effectiveness of local-level preparedness.
Post-Sendai Framework DRR Measures (After 2015):
- Alignment with Sendai Framework Priorities: India’s DRR strategy has been significantly realigned with the Sendai Framework’s seven targets and four priorities for action. This includes a stronger emphasis on risk assessment, risk reduction, preparedness, and disaster recovery.
- National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP): The NDMP has been revised to incorporate the Sendai Framework’s principles, focusing on a holistic approach encompassing prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.
- Increased Emphasis on Risk Assessment: Greater emphasis is placed on comprehensive risk assessments at national and local levels, using advanced technologies and data analysis to identify vulnerable areas and populations.
- Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (CBDRR): There’s a growing focus on CBDRR, empowering local communities to participate in planning, implementation, and monitoring of DRR activities. This includes training programs and capacity building initiatives.
- Investment in Early Warning Systems: Significant investments have been made in improving early warning systems for various hazards, including the use of advanced technologies like satellite imagery and weather forecasting models.
- Climate Change Integration: The impact of climate change on disaster risk is increasingly recognized, leading to the integration of climate change adaptation measures into DRR strategies.
Differences between Sendai Framework and Hyogo Framework:
| Feature | Hyogo Framework for Action (2005-2015) | Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) |
|—————–|—————————————-|—————————————————-|
| Focus | Primarily response and recovery | Prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery |
| Approach | Hazard-specific | Holistic, all-hazards approach |
| Governance | Decentralized, with varying effectiveness | Stronger emphasis on multi-stakeholder partnerships |
| Community Role | Limited | Central to planning and implementation |
| Monitoring | Less robust | More comprehensive monitoring and evaluation |
| Targets | Less specific targets | Specific, measurable targets for risk reduction |
Conclusion:
India has made significant strides in DRR, particularly after adopting the Sendai Framework. The shift from a primarily response-oriented approach to a more proactive and holistic approach, emphasizing prevention and community participation, is commendable. However, challenges remain, including resource constraints, capacity building at the local level, and effective integration of climate change considerations. Moving forward, India needs to strengthen its risk assessment capabilities, enhance community resilience through targeted capacity building programs, and ensure adequate funding for DRR initiatives. A sustained commitment to these efforts, guided by the principles of the Sendai Framework, is crucial for building a more resilient and disaster-prepared nation, upholding the constitutional values of ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. This will contribute to holistic development and sustainable progress, minimizing the devastating impacts of disasters on the lives and livelihoods of the Indian population.