On Monday, the Indian government approved additional central assistance amounting to ₹1,816.162 crore for five states – Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Meghalaya, and Nagaland – that were hit by natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and cloudburst in 2022. This move, chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demonstrates the central government’s determination to support the affected states under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The aid will be provided from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
Of the total amount approved, ₹520.466 crore will go to Assam, ₹239.31 crore to Himachal Pradesh, ₹941.04 crore to Karnataka, ₹47.326 crore to Meghalaya, and ₹68.02 crore to Nagaland. This assistance is in addition to the funds already released by the Centre to the states in the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), which has already been provided to the states, according to a statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
During the fiscal year 2022-23, the central government has already released ₹15,770.40 crore to 25 states under their SDRF and ₹502.744 crore to four states from NDRF. These amounts are part of the central government’s ongoing efforts to support states that have been impacted by natural calamities.
Immediately after the natural disasters occurred, the central government had dispatched Inter-Ministerial Central Teams (IMCTs) to these states, without waiting for the receipt of the Memorandum from them. The IMCTs were tasked with assessing the situation and identifying the areas that require immediate assistance.
The provision of additional financial assistance to the affected states is a testament to the central government’s commitment to supporting those who have been impacted by natural disasters. The funds will go a long way in providing much-needed relief to the affected communities and will help in the reconstruction and restoration of damaged infrastructure.
Natural calamities, such as floods, landslides, and cloudbursts, have become increasingly frequent in recent years due to climate change. These disasters can result in the loss of life, property, and livelihoods, leaving communities vulnerable and in need of immediate assistance.
In response, the central government has established the NDRF to provide financial support to states that have been impacted by natural disasters. The fund provides a dedicated source of funding for immediate relief and long-term reconstruction efforts.
Furthermore, the government has also established the SDRF to provide additional financial assistance to states affected by natural disasters. The fund provides states with the necessary resources to respond to natural calamities, and enables them to take prompt action in the face of a crisis.
Overall, the provision of additional financial assistance to the five states affected by natural disasters in 2022 is a welcome move by the central government. It highlights the government’s commitment to supporting the affected communities and helping them to rebuild and recover from the devastation caused by natural disasters. By providing financial assistance through the NDRF and SDRF, the government is taking proactive steps to mitigate the impact of natural calamities and support affected communities.
