NEW DELHI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently announced three significant schemes totaling over ₹8,000 crore aimed at modernizing fire brigade services, flood mitigation in major cities, and landslide prevention across various states. Speaking at a meeting of state and Union Territory disaster management ministers, Mr. Shah emphasized the need for a zero-loss-of-life approach to disasters in the country.
The first scheme focuses on the modernization and expansion of fire brigade services in all states, with ₹5,000 crore allocated for this purpose. A detailed plan will be provided to the states for implementation. The second scheme allocates ₹2,500 crore to address flood dangers in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Pune. A detailed plan will be shared for flood mitigation measures in these cities. The third scheme provides ₹825 crore to tackle landslides in 17 states.
Mr. Shah stressed the collective responsibility to ensure no loss of life due to any disaster. He acknowledged the joint efforts of the central government, state governments, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership in disaster management. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has visited states where nuclear power stations are being built, providing guidelines to avoid potential disasters. Mr. Shah urged these states to prioritize disaster prevention measures before commissioning nuclear power plants.
He highlighted the need for ongoing preparations, as disasters constantly evolve in nature and intensity. While disaster management is not a new concept in India, Mr. Shah emphasized the importance of expanding preparations and learning from historical documents on disaster management.
The Home Minister commended the collective response during the COVID-19 pandemic under Prime Minister Modi's leadership. He mentioned that the country's approach to disaster management has shifted from relief-oriented and reactionary measures to early warning systems, prevention, mitigation, and preparedness-based strategies.
Regarding compensation for farmers affected by natural disasters, Mr. Shah assured that the central government would seriously consider the suggestion to enhance compensation. However, he urged states to increase their budgetary provisions for this purpose.
Mr. Shah urged states to prioritize the implementation of various policies and plans formulated by the central government, including the model fire bill, disaster prevention policy, thunderstorm and lightning policy, and cold wave policy. He appreciated states that have already implemented or formulated work plans based on these policies.
He highlighted the positive impact of the 'Aapda Mitra' scheme, which has trained one lakh youth volunteers in 350 disaster-prone districts. These volunteers have played a crucial role in dealing with various disasters.
In conclusion, Union Home Minister Amit Shah's announcements focused on the modernization of fire brigade services, flood mitigation in major cities, and landslide prevention in several states. He emphasized the importance of preventing loss of life due to disasters, the need for continuous preparations, and the implementation of effective policies and plans.
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