NDMA & NDRF Framework — Set 11

Correct Answer: B. Emergency Powers under DM Act Section 30 and 34

Emergency powers under Sections 30 and 34 of the Disaster Management Act 2005 allow district and state officials to quickly mobilize resources, give directions to government departments, and requisition resources during sudden disasters. These powers can be exercised without going through normal administrative procedures when immediate action is necessary to save lives. The powers include authority over government departments, private sector resources, and local bodies.

Correct Answer: B. Sendai Framework for DRR 2015-2030

India's first National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP) released in 2016 was specifically aligned with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. India was the first country to align its national disaster management plan with the Sendai Framework after its adoption at the World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in 2015. This alignment reflected India's strong commitment to the Sendai Framework's priorities and global targets.

Correct Answer: B. 18 teams

Each NDRF battalion typically has 18 self-contained search and rescue teams, each with 45 personnel. These teams can operate independently in isolated disaster locations with their own communication, medical, and logistics support. The self-contained nature of these teams ensures that they can be deployed to remote areas without requiring external support for initial operations.

Correct Answer: C. Both urban and rural areas within the district

The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) is required to prepare disaster management plans covering both urban and rural areas within the district. The plan must address the specific vulnerabilities and risks of different areas within the district and establish response protocols for each. The DDMA plan must also integrate with city and municipal disaster management plans for urban areas.

Correct Answer: B. Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (CBDRR)

Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (CBDRR) is a key concept in NDMA's framework that focuses on empowering local communities to be self-reliant in identifying risks, preparing for disasters, and responding effectively. CBDRR programs train community volunteers, develop community action plans, and establish local early warning systems. The Aapda Mitra scheme is a prominent example of NDMA's CBDRR approach.

Correct Answer: C. Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India

The National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) accounts are audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India as per the Disaster Management Act 2005. This ensures financial accountability and proper utilization of disaster relief funds. The CAG audit reports on NDRF are presented to Parliament, providing transparency in the management of disaster relief resources.

Correct Answer: C. To facilitate preparation of hazard vulnerability maps in coordination with relevant agencies

NDMA's mandate includes facilitating the preparation of hazard vulnerability risk maps for different disaster types in coordination with relevant technical agencies like GSI, NCS, ISRO, and IMD. These maps help planners, administrators, and communities understand their specific disaster risks. Hazard maps are essential tools for risk-sensitive land use planning, infrastructure development, and disaster preparedness.

Correct Answer: C. Both Japan and USA among others

India has bilateral disaster management cooperation MOUs with several countries including Japan, USA, Russia, and others for mutual disaster response and capacity building. These agreements facilitate information sharing, joint exercises, technical assistance, and mutual support during major disasters. India's growing disaster management capabilities have made it a sought-after partner for disaster management cooperation globally.

Correct Answer: B. Physical exposure and vulnerability to hazards

The Disaster Risk Index (DRI) measures the physical exposure and vulnerability of countries to natural hazards such as earthquakes, tropical cyclones, floods, and droughts. It was developed by UNDP to compare disaster risk across countries and identify areas requiring disaster risk reduction investment. India is classified as having high risk for multiple hazard types due to its geographic location and large exposed population.

Correct Answer: B. Compliance with IS 1893 seismic design codes and BIS standards

NDMA mandates compliance with IS 1893 seismic design codes and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) standards for school construction in earthquake-prone areas. Schools are considered critical infrastructure and their structural safety is essential for protecting children's lives. NDMA's school safety guidelines require assessment of existing school buildings and retrofitting of those found structurally deficient.