Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority

Introduction

Disaster management institutional mechanism in India is guided by the Disaster Management Act, 2005. At national level, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), headed by the Prime Minister of India, is the apex body for Disaster Management in India. The act also provides disaster management institutions for states.

Establishment

The Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority was constituted in 2006 (GR. dated 24/05/2006), as per the mandate of the Disaster Management Act 2005. Section 14 of the Act laid down the provision for the State Government to establish its State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA). The Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority is headed by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

Roles and Responsibilities

As per the Disaster Management Act 2005, the SDMA is responsible for laying down policies and plans for disaster management in the state. It is also responsible for approving the State Disaster Management Plan (SDMP) in accordance with the NDMA guidelines, coordinating its implementation, and recommending the provision of funds for mitigation and preparedness measures. It reviews and approves the developmental plans of the different State Departments to ensure the integration of prevention, preparedness, mitigation, and response measures. In addition, it lays down guidelines to be followed by the departments for the purposes of integrating measures for the prevention of disasters and mitigation in their development plans and projects and provides necessary technical assistance. SDMA is also responsible for reviewing the measures taken for mitigation, capacity building, and preparedness by the departments and issuing such guidelines as necessary. The State Authority shall also lay down detailed guidelines for providing standards of relief to persons affected by disasters in the State.

State Executive Committee (SEC)

Maharashtra has established the SEC according to the provisions of Section 20 of the Disaster Management Act 2005. It is constituted to assist the SDMA in the performance of its functions and to coordinate action in accordance with the guidelines laid down by the SDMA and ensure compliance with the directions issued by the State Government under the Disaster Management Act 2005.