In response to the frequent occurrence of natural disasters in India, the Union Home Minister has announced a package of ₹8,000 crores for infrastructure upgrades.

This includes the modernization of fire brigade services in all states, prevention of landslides in 17 states, and flood mitigation in seven major cities.

During a meeting with disaster management ministers from states and union territories, the Home Minister emphasized the importance of zero loss of life in any disaster. He also outlined the government’s plans.

A sum of ₹5,000 crores will be allocated to assist states in modernizing and expanding their fire brigade services. Additionally, ₹2,500 crores will be provided to mitigate the risk of floods in major urban areas.

These areas include Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Pune. To address landslides in 17 states, the Central government will grant a sum of nearly ₹825 crores.

Furthermore, the Union Minister revealed that the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) conducted an audit of seven nuclear power stations under construction. In addition, it sent strict protocols to the respective states for adoption.

The Minister urged these states to prioritize the implementation of these protocols to prevent potential disasters. Besides, he also emphasized the need to continue working together, as the nature and intensity of disasters are constantly evolving.

The Home Minister highlighted the effective coordination between the Centre and states during the COVID-19 pandemic, which demonstrated successful disaster management.

Previously, the country’s approach to disasters was relief-oriented and reactionary. But in the last nine years, the focus has shifted towards early warning systems, prevention, mitigation, and preparedness.

Regarding compensation for farmers affected by natural disasters, the Union Home Minister assured that the Central government would seriously consider enhancing it. Besides, he suggested that states should also increase their budgetary provision for such situations.

The Minister expressed concern that a majority of states have not formulated work plans or implemented various disaster management policies formulated by the Central government.

Some of them include the model fire bill, disaster prevention policy, thunderstorm and lightning policy, and cold wave policy.

The Union Home Minister’s announcement of an ₹8,000 crore package reflects the government’s commitment to upgrading infrastructure and strengthening disaster management efforts across the country.

By focusing on prevention, mitigation, and preparedness, the aim is to minimize loss of life and effectively respond to the changing nature of disasters.

It is imperative for states to actively collaborate with the Centre and prioritize the implementation of necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the population.

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