STATE DISASTER RESPONSE FUND

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Context

The release of funds under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) by the Home Ministry.

Details

• Home Minister Amit Shah approves release of funds to 19 State governments.
• The funds will aid relief measures during the current Monsoon season.

Funds Allocation for 2022-23

• Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh to receive a total of ₹1,209 crore.
• Aimed at assisting these states in undertaking relief measures.

Funds Allocation for 2023-24

• Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Goa, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Odisha, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and Tripura will receive a total of ₹4,984 crore.
• Intended to support relief measures during the specified year.

Funds Approved for Current Financial Year

• The Central Government has already approved over ₹3,600 crore for nine states.
• Allocated to aid relief measures during the ongoing financial year.

Allocation Based on 15th Finance Commission Recommendations

• The Central Government has allocated over ₹1,28,000 crore for SDRF.
• Allocation covers the period from 2021-22 to 2025-26.

About State Disaster Response Fund

• The State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) is a fund established by the Indian government to assist states in managing and responding to various types of disasters.
• The SDRF aims to provide financial support for relief, response, and mitigation activities during natural or man-made disasters.

Purpose of SDRF

• The primary purpose of the SDRF is to support states in undertaking immediate relief measures in the wake of a disaster.
• The fund also helps in the capacity building of states to handle disasters effectively and efficiently.
• SDRF assists in providing timely financial assistance for rescue operations, relief distribution, medical care, and other emergency measures.

Funding Allocation

• The SDRF is funded through a combination of contributions from the central government and state governments.
• The central government allocates funds to each state based on the recommendations of the Finance Commission.
• The allocation is generally made on an annual basis and is subject to changes as per the government's decision.

Utilization of SDRF

• The SDRF can be utilized by states for various disaster-related activities, including but not limited to:
  • a) Rescue and relief operations during natural disasters like floods, cyclones, earthquakes, etc.
  • b) Emergency medical care and provision of essential supplies to affected populations.
  • c) Restoration and repair of damaged infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings.
  • d) Rehabilitation and reconstruction activities post-disaster.
  • e) Support for the functioning of state-level emergency response agencies.
  • f) Capacity building and training programs for disaster management personnel.

Guidelines and Monitoring

• The utilization of SDRF funds is governed by specific guidelines issued by the central government.
• States are required to adhere to these guidelines and provide regular reports on fund utilization and progress of relief activities.
• The central government monitors the utilization of funds and provides necessary support and guidance to states when needed.

Periodic Review and Future Allocations

• The Finance Commission periodically reviews the allocation of funds to the SDRF based on the evolving needs and requirements.
• The allocation for the SDRF is generally made for a specific time period, covering multiple years to ensure continuity of funding for disaster response and mitigation efforts.

About National Disaster Response Fund

• The National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) is a dedicated fund established by the Indian government to finance relief and rehabilitation efforts during major disasters.
• The NDRF aims to provide timely and effective financial assistance to states and union territories in the event of severe calamities.

Creation and Management

• The NDRF was created in accordance with the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
• It is managed by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which is responsible for overall policy, planning, and coordination of disaster management in the country.

Funding

• The NDRF is primarily funded by budgetary allocations from the central government.
• Additional sources of funding include voluntary contributions from individuals, organizations, and contributions from other countries or international organizations during exceptional circumstances.

Objective and Utilization of Funds

• The primary objective of the NDRF is to supplement the funds available with states and union territories to respond effectively to disasters.
• The funds from the NDRF are utilized for various purposes, including:
  • a) Emergency response activities such as search and rescue operations, evacuation, and medical aid.
  • b) Provision of immediate relief assistance to affected individuals and communities, including food, shelter, and medical support.
  • c) Restoration and reconstruction of public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, etc.
  • d) Capacity building initiatives to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and mitigation efforts.

Release of Funds

• The release of funds from the NDRF is based on the recommendation of the NDMA.
• Funds are allocated to states and union territories based on the severity and extent of the disaster, as assessed by the NDMA.
• The release of funds is subject to the approval of the Union Home Minister.

Monitoring and Accountability

• The utilization of funds from the NDRF is monitored by the NDMA and other designated authorities.
• States and union territories are required to submit utilization certificates and reports on the expenditure and progress of relief and rehabilitation activities.
• Audits and inspections may be conducted to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper utilization of funds.

Emergency Declarations

• In exceptional cases of severe disasters, the central government may declare a particular event as a "disaster of severe nature" and provide additional financial support from the NDRF.
• This declaration enables the central government to mobilize additional resources and support for the affected areas.

Long-term Planning and Preparedness

• The NDRF also supports the development and implementation of long-term disaster management plans and initiatives.
• This includes measures such as risk assessment, hazard mapping, public awareness campaigns, and training programs.

https://newsonair.gov.in/News?title=HM-Amit-Shah-approves--release-of-over-six-thousand-194-crore-rupees-to-19-State-governments-under-State-Disaster-Response-Fund&id=463456