Disaster Management Bill adds post-disaster audits for states

This Bill amends the Disaster Management Act, 2005 to update definitions, expand the powers of the National Authority, and formally recognize existing committees for crisis management and financial assistance. It aims to improve disaster risk reduction, preparedness, and recovery processes across India.

The law affects the Central Government, State Governments, the National Authority, State Authorities, District Authorities, Urban Authorities, and the general public (specifically those affected by disasters regarding relief standards). It also applies to Ministries and Departments of the Government of India and State Governments regarding planning and mitigation measures.

• Clarifies that 'man made causes' of disaster do not include law and order situations.
• Defines new terms including 'disaster database', 'disaster risk', 'evacuation', 'exposure', 'hazard', 'recovery', 'rehabilitation', 'resilience', 'response', and 'vulnerability'.
• Mandates that the day-to-day functions of the National Authority be performed by the Vice-Chairperson or a designated member.
• Allows the National Authority to appoint officers, experts, and consultants with salaries prescribed by the Central Government.
• Expands the National Authority's duties to include coordinating the National Plan, providing technical guidance to States, monitoring implementation of the National Policy, and creating a national disaster database.
• Requires the National Authority to recommend guidelines for minimum standards of relief, including shelter, food, medical cover, and assistance for widows, orphans, and loss of livelihood.
• Formally recognizes the National Crisis Management Committee (chaired by the Cabinet Secretary) as the nodal body for major disasters.
• Formally recognizes the High Level Committee (chaired by the relevant Minister) for providing financial assistance to States and approving mitigation funds.
• Expands the role of the National Executive Committee to monitor plans, coordinate mitigation, and evaluate preparedness at all governmental levels.

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