6) Disaster management is more than just reaction to crises, it is a holistic process that needs a fresh look in light of frequent natural calamities. Examine. (250 words)

Topic – Part of static series under the heading – “Disaster and Disaster management”.

6) Disaster management is more than just reaction to crises, it is a holistic process that needs a fresh look in light of frequent natural calamities. Examine. (250 words)

Why this question

The alacrity with which the world is faced with so many natural disasters means that disaster management is to be focussed upon. The lessons learnt from Kerala etc needs to be understood in detail and incorporated in our disaster management policy response.

Key demand of the question

The question expects us to bring out the what a holistic process of disaster response incorporates, from preparation to response to rehabilitation and rebuilding. All these discussions have to be done in the context of the lessons learnt from the recent disasters that have hit India and other parts of the world.

Directive word

Examine – When you are asked to examine, you have to probe deeper into the topic,  get into details, and find out the causes or implications if any .

Structure of the answer

Introduction – Highlight that the magnitude and intensity of natural disasters has increased across the world.

Body

 

• Explain the concept of Total Disaster Risk Management (TDRM) Approach part of Hyogo framework. This approach emphasises that the natural disasters are not natural, but rather man-made disasters are the consequences of natural hazards and human actions or inactions. Thus, human societies have the capacity to recognize the risks and factors that could lead or cause disasters, as well as the appropriate interventions to control or manage them. In other words, disasters can be prevented or, at least, their destructiveness minimized.
• Highlight the lessons that can be learnt from disasters such as the floods in Kerala etc and how can they be incorporated in out disaster management strategy for better results.

Conclusion – Emphasize on the losses both economic and in terms of lives etc that have to be mitigated for which a more effective disaster response and preparation strategy is required.