New Delhi– During a meeting of state and Union Territory disaster management ministers in New Delhi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled three significant schemes worth over Rs 8,000 crore. These schemes aim to address the modernization of fire brigade services across all states, flood mitigation in seven major cities, and preventing of landslides in 17 states.
Shah emphasized the importance of ensuring zero loss of life due to any disaster in the country and announced that approximately Rs 5,000 crore would be allocated to assist all states in the modernization and expansion of their fire brigade services. The authorities have undertaken a significant initiative by allocating Rs 2.5 thousand crores for flood risk mitigation measures for seven important Indian cities. These cities are Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Pune. Furthermore, the central government will allocate nearly Rs 825 crore to address landslides in 17 states.
Highlighting the significance of disaster prevention, Shah mentioned that the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) had implemented a strict protocol for states where nuclear power stations are being constructed. He urged these states to prioritize disaster prevention measures to prevent potential incidents.
Shah cautioned against complacency, stating that while progress has been made in disaster management, the nature of disasters is constantly evolving, and their intensity is increasing. He stressed the need for continuous preparation and expansion of disaster management efforts.
The Home Minister praised the collective efforts of the central government, state governments, and citizens in effectively managing the Covid-19 pandemic. He emphasized the shift from a relief-oriented and reactive approach to a proactive one focused on early warning systems, prevention, mitigation, and preparedness.
Shah also addressed suggestions to enhance compensation for farmers affected by natural disasters, assuring that the central government would seriously consider the matter. He urged states to allocate higher budgets for this purpose.
Finally, he urged states to prioritize implementing various disaster-related policies and work on formulating plans. Shah highlighted the success of the ‘Aapda Mitra’ scheme, which has trained one lakh youth volunteers in 350 disaster-prone districts to handle calamities effectively.