CARE 7th August 2024 Current Affairs

Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (07-08-2024)

 

News at a Glance

Polity and Government: Boilers Bill, 2024 introduced in Rajya Sabha

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission Launches Million Designers, Billion Dreams with LEAP

Bill seeks to expand NDMA role, fails to strengthen its status

Economy: CIL & GAIL Sign a JV for Setting up Coal to SNG Plant

International Relations: President Droupadi Murmu receives Fiji’s highest civilian award

Boilers Bill, 2024 introduced in Rajya Sabha

Source: PIB

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2042301

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 Polity and Governance

Context: Boilers Bill, 2024 

Why in News 

• The Boilers Bill, 2024, introduced in the Rajya Sabha on August 6, 2024, aims to modernize and replace the Boilers Act, 1923. 

Objectives of the Boilers Bill, 2024 

• Modernization and Relevance: The Bill updates the 1923 Act to better meet contemporary needs and standards. This includes aligning with current drafting practices and addressing the requirements of various stakeholders such as industry players, boiler users, and personnel.
• Ease of Doing Business (EoDB): The Bill incorporates decriminalization provisions to simplify compliance and reduce legal burdens for businesses, particularly benefiting the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.
• Enhanced Safety: New provisions are included to improve the safety standards for personnel working with boilers, ensuring repairs are conducted by qualified professionals.

Key Features of the Bill

• Structured Layout: The Bill is divided into six chapters, grouping similar provisions together for clarity and ease of understanding. This contrasts with the 1923 Act, where related provisions were scattered.
• Decriminalization and Penalties: The Bill retains criminal penalties for major offences that could lead to loss of life or property, while other offences are now subject to fiscal penalties. This change aims to reduce the criminalization of minor infractions.
• Non-criminal offences previously punishable by fines will now incur penalties through an executive mechanism rather than the judicial system.

Updated Definitions and Provisions: 

• Redundant or obsolete provisions from the 1923 Act have been removed, including sections related to feed-pipes and economizers.
• New definitions and amendments to existing definitions have been made for clarity. 
• For example, definitions of “notification,” “regulations,” and “State Government” have been added or updated.

Enabling Provisions:

• The Bill includes new provisions to enable the creation of rules and regulations which were not covered by the old Act. 
• This ensures a more comprehensive legal framework. 
• Detailed Powers and Responsibilities: The Bill specifies the powers and responsibilities of the Central Government, State Governments, and the Central Boilers Board, making the administrative framework more transparent.

New Clauses 

• Clause 43: Provides power to address difficulties in implementing the new Act within a three-year period.
• Clause 44: Ensures that existing rules and regulations under the 1923 Act remain in effect until new ones are introduced under the 2024 Act.
• Revised Drafting and Referencing: The Bill employs modern drafting practices, with updated referencing and structuring to ensure consistency and ease of interpretation.

Background and Rationale

• Review and Modernization: The review of the 1923 Act is part of a broader government initiative to update pre-constitution laws to better align with contemporary needs. Despite an amendment in 2007, the need for further revision to address outdated provisions and align with the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, prompted the new Bill.
• Focus on Safety and Compliance: The Bill emphasizes safety improvements and a more streamlined regulatory approach, reflecting changes in industry practices and safety standards.
  

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q1. Which of the following are major changes introduced by the Boilers Bill, 2024, compared to the Boilers Act, 1923? Introduction of new chapters for better organization Decriminalization of all boiler-related offences Retention of criminal penalties for major safety violations Removal of all redundant provisions Options:  1 and 3 only 1, 2, and 3 only 1, 3, and 4 only 2 and 4 only

Q. With reference to India, consider the following pairs: (2023) Action – The Act under which it is covered 1, Unauthorized wearing of police or military uniforms – The Official Secrets Act, 1923 2. Knowingly misleading or otherwise interfering with a police officer or military officer when engaged in their duties – The Indian Evidence Act, 1872 3., Celebratory gunfire which can endanger the personal safety of others – The Arms (Amendment) Act, 2019 How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? Only one Only two All three None Answer: (b)

Answer 1- A Explanation Introduction of new chapters for better organization: This is a significant change in the Boilers Bill, 2024. The Bill is structured into six chapters, which groups similar provisions together for clarity and easier understanding. This is a major departure from the Boilers Act, 1923, which did not have such a structured format. Hence statement 1 is correct. Decriminalization of all boiler-related offences: The Boilers Bill, 2024 does not decriminalize all boiler-related offences. It retains criminal penalties for major safety violations that could lead to loss of life or property, while other offences are subject to fiscal penalties instead of criminal penalties. Hence statement 2 is incorrect. Retention of criminal penalties for major safety violations: The Bill maintains criminal penalties for serious offences related to safety, ensuring that there are stringent consequences for violations that could result in significant harm. Hence statement 3 is correct. Removal of all redundant provisions: While the Bill does remove some redundant provisions from the 1923 Act, it does not remove all of them. Some provisions related to the old Act’s administrative and procedural aspects remain until new regulations are introduced. Hence statement 4 is incorrect.  Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission Launches Million Designers, Billion Dreams with LEAP

Source: PIB 

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2042359

UPSC Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance

Context: Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)

Why in News 

• The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) announced the launch of the initiative “Million Designers, Billion Dreams.” 

Overview

• The initiative “Million Designers, Billion Dreams” launched by the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) is an ambitious program designed to empower individuals across India with systems design knowledge. 
• This program is a collaborative effort involving LEAP, the Design Laboratory at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (D-Lab), the Transform Rural India Foundation (TRIF), and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF). 

Objectives and Vision of the Program 

1. Capacity Building:

• The program aims to enhance the skills of rural leaders, frontline change agents, and village entrepreneurs by teaching them systems design know-how. 
• This knowledge is essential for tackling complex societal challenges and driving innovation.

1. Empowerment and Innovation:

• By equipping participants with systems design frameworks, the initiative seeks to foster creativity and ownership. 
• This will enable individuals to develop impactful, scalable solutions tailored to their communities’ needs.

1. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:

• The program promotes collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including government bodies, non-profits, and local communities. 
• This collaborative approach is crucial for addressing multifaceted problems and driving systemic change.

1. Sustainable Development:

• The initiative focuses on developing solutions that improve quality of life and stimulate economic growth while adopting sustainable practices. 
• It aims to address environmental, social, and economic challenges through innovative design.

Expected Outcomes

1. Increased Proficiency in Systems Design:
   • Participants will gain advanced skills in systems design, allowing them to create effective solutions that drive innovation and change across various sectors.
2. Development of Scalable Solutions:
   • The program is expected to produce scalable solutions that enhance the quality of life in rural areas and support economic development.
3. Promotion of Sustainable Practices:
   • By integrating sustainable practices into the solutions developed, the initiative aims to tackle pressing environmental and social issues.
4. Global Leadership in Design and Innovation:
   • The program aims to position India as a leader in design and innovation on a global scale by leveraging the capabilities of its rural leaders and entrepreneurs.

Launch Event 

• Chairpersons and Key Speakers:
  • The launch event was chaired by Shri Charanjit Singh, Additional Secretary, Rural Livelihoods, Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), with participation from other notable figures such as Ms. Smriti Sharan, Joint Secretary, and Shri Raman Wadhwa, Deputy Director, DAY-NRLM.
  • From LEAP, Mr. Andre Nogueira, Ph.D., CEO, presented the program’s vision. Other notable attendees included Shri Anish Kumar, Managing Director, TRIF, and experts from the MoRD.
• Online Participation:
  • The event was joined online by State Rural Livelihoods Mission (SRLM) heads, who engaged in discussions about the program’s potential impact on India’s rural communities.

Significance 

• The “Million Designers, Billion Dreams” initiative represents a transformative approach to rural development. 
• By focusing on systems design, it aims to empower individuals with the skills necessary to create innovative and sustainable solutions to complex challenges. 
• This approach not only seeks to improve local conditions but also aims to elevate India’s global standing in design and innovation.

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)

• Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) is a flagship poverty alleviation program implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India. 
• It aims to reduce poverty by enabling the poor household to access gainful self-employment and skilled wage employment opportunities resulting in sustainable and diversified livelihood options for the poor. 
• This is one of the world’s largest initiatives to improve the livelihoods of the poor. 
• The Mission seeks to achieve its objective through investing in four core components viz., 

(a) social mobilization and promotion and strengthening of self-managed and financially sustainable community institutions of the rural poor women; 

(b) financial inclusion; 

(c) sustainable livelihoods; and

(d) social inclusion, social development and access to entitlements through convergence.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q2. The “Million Designers, Billion Dreams” initiative is expected to achieve which of the following outcomes? Increase the number of individuals with systems design expertise Promote only economic growth without considering sustainability Enhance the quality of life in rural areas through scalable solutions Limit innovation to traditional sectors only Options:  1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 4 only 3 and 4 only

Q. With reference to the government’s welfare schemes, consider the following statements. (2002) 1. Under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana, the food grains are available to the poorest of the families at 2 per kg for wheat and 3 per kg for rice. Under the National Old Age Pension Scheme, the 2. old and destitute are provided 75 per month as central pension, in addition to the amount provided by most State Government 3. Government of India has allocated 25 kg food grain per below poverty line family per month, at less than half the economic cost. Which of these statements are correct? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 1 and 3 (c) 2 and 3 (d) 1,2 and 3 Ans. (d)

Answer 2– B Explanation –  One of the primary objectives of the initiative is to enhance the capacity of individuals by equipping them with systems design know-how. This expertise will enable them to tackle complex societal challenges and drive innovative solutions. Hence, Statement 1 is correct. The initiative does not focus solely on economic growth. Instead, it aims to foster sustainable development by addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. Promoting sustainability is a key aspect of the initiative. Hence, Statement 2 is incorrect. A major goal of the initiative is to develop scalable solutions that can improve the quality of life in rural areas. By focusing on scalable and impactful solutions, the program seeks to drive meaningful change in rural communities. Hence, Statement 3 is correct. The initiative aims to drive innovation across various sectors, not just traditional ones. By empowering individuals with systems design knowledge, the program encourages creativity and innovation in addressing complex and diverse challenges. Hence, Statement 4 is incorrect. Therefore, option B  is the correct answer.

CIL & GAIL Sign a JV for Setting up Coal to SNG Plant

Source: PIB

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2042019

UPSC Relevance: GS-3 Economy

Context: Coal India Limited (CIL) and GAIL (India) Limited (GAIL)

Why in News

• The Ministry of Coal, in collaboration with the Ministry of Power& Natural Gas, has facilitated a landmark joint venture agreement between two leading Maharatna CPSEs, Coal India Limited (CIL) and GAIL (India) Limited (GAIL).

Overview of the Agreement 

• Parties Involved:
  • Coal India Limited (CIL): A major public sector undertaking involved in coal production.
  • GAIL (India) Limited (GAIL): A leading public sector natural gas processing and distribution company.
• Purpose:
  • The agreement is focused on setting up a Coal to Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG) plant using Surface Coal Gasification (SCG) technology. 
  • This plant will be located in the Raniganj area of Eastern Coalfields Limited, West Bengal.
• Production Goals:
  • SNG Output: The plant aims to produce 80,000 Nm³ (Normal cubic meters) per hour of Synthetic Natural Gas.
  • Annual Production: Expected to be 633.6 Million Nm³ annually.
  • Coal Requirement: The plant will require 1.9 million tonnes of coal per year, which will be supplied by CIL.

Significance of the Initiative 

1. Utilization of Coal:
   • Coal Gasification: This technology converts coal into synthetic gas (Syngas) and subsequently into SNG, which can be used as a substitute for natural gas. This process leverages the chemical properties of coal in a more environmentally friendly manner compared to traditional coal usage.
2. Economic and Strategic Benefits:
   • Reducing Import Dependency: The production of SNG aims to reduce reliance on imported natural gas and strengthen energy security.
   • Support for Atmanirbhar Mission: By increasing domestic production of synthetic gas, the initiative supports India’s goal of self-reliance in energy resources.
3. Environmental Impact:
   • Minimizing Carbon Emissions: The Ministry of Coal emphasizes the need for more coal gasification projects to help reduce carbon emissions. The technology is considered more environmentally friendly compared to conventional coal burning methods.
4. Government Support:
   • Financial Incentives: The government has floated Request for Proposals (RFPs) for financial incentives of Rs. 8,500 crores to support coal and lignite gasification projects. This financial support is aimed at making these projects viable and attractive for public and private sector participation.

Statements from Key Figures

• Shri M. Nagaraju (Additional Secretary, Coal):
  • Emphasized that the commitment of CIL and GAIL to this project sets a benchmark for future initiatives.
  • Highlighted coal gasification as a priority for the Ministry and stressed the need for additional projects to minimize carbon emissions.
• Shri S.K. Gupta (Chairman & Managing Director, GAIL):
  • Expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of CIL and GAIL.
  • Called for more government support to advance the project.
• Shri Pankaj Jain (Secretary, MoP&NG):
  • Advocated for alternative uses of coal to meet emission targets.
  • Described SCG as a promising technology for producing valuable synthetic gas and feedstock for chemicals.
• Shri Debasish Nanda (Director BD, CIL):
  • Urged the Projects and Development India Limited (PDIL) to prioritize the preparation of the plant’s detailed feasibility report.
  • Thanked all involved officials and parties for their contributions to the signing ceremony.

Next Steps

• Feasibility Report:
  • PDIL is tasked with preparing a detailed feasibility report for the plant, which will outline the project’s viability and detailed planning.

Coal India Limited (CIL) 

• Overview:
  • Founded: 1975
  • Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal
  • Type: Public Sector Undertaking (PSU)
  • Industry: Coal Mining

• Function:
  • CIL is the largest coal-producing company in the world and one of the largest employers in India. 
  • It is responsible for the majority of coal production in India, contributing significantly to the country’s energy needs.
  • Operations: The company operates through several subsidiaries and is involved in the exploration, production, and marketing of coal. It manages numerous coal mines across different states in India, including both open-cast and underground mining operations.
• Significance:
  • CIL plays a crucial role in providing coal for power generation, which is a major component of India’s energy mix. The coal produced by CIL supports various sectors, including power, steel, cement, and others.

GAIL (India) Limited (GAIL) 

• Overview:
  • Founded: 1984
  • Headquarters: New Delhi, India
  • Type: Public Sector Undertaking (PSU)
  • Industry: Natural Gas
• Function:
  • GAIL is India’s largest state-owned natural gas processing and distribution company. 
  • It is involved in the exploration, production, transmission, and marketing of natural gas and also operates in the petrochemicals sector.
  • Operations: The company manages a vast network of pipelines for natural gas transportation, along with LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) distribution. 
  • It is engaged in producing and distributing gas and has a significant presence in the petrochemical industry.
• Significance:
  • GAIL plays a key role in meeting the energy needs of India by providing natural gas for power generation, industrial use, and as a feedstock for chemicals. 
  • It contributes to reducing India’s dependency on imported fuels and supports the country’s energy security.

SNG technology

• Synthetic natural gas (SNG) is one of the commodities that can be produced from coal-derived syngas through the methanation process. 
• The economic viability of producing SNG through coal gasification is heavily dependent on the market prices of natural gas and the coal feedstock to be used, the value of by-products such as carbon dioxide (CO2) (which could be used for EOR), and additionally the capital cost of the gasification plant. 
• Currently, there is only one coal-to-SNG plant currently in commercial operation worldwide.

  

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q3. Consider the following statements about the recent joint venture agreement between Coal India Limited (CIL) and GAIL (India) Limited (GAIL): The joint venture aims to establish a Coal to Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG) plant using Surface Coal Gasification (SCG) technology. The annual production of the plant is targeted at 1.9 million tonnes of Synthetic Natural Gas. The project aims to reduce India’s dependency on imported natural gas and support the Atmanirbhar mission.  Select the correct code: Only one  Only two  Only three  None

Q. With reference to green hydrogen, consider the following statements: (2023) It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion. It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation. It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Ans: C

Answer 3 B Explanation Statement 1: Correct The joint venture does aim to establish a Coal to Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG) plant using Surface Coal Gasification (SCG) technology. Statement 2: Incorrect The annual production target of the plant is not 1.9 million tonnes of Synthetic Natural Gas. The actual annual production target is 633.6 million Nm³ of Synthetic Natural Gas. The figure of 1.9 million tonnes refers to the quantity of coal required annually, not the SNG. Statement 3: Correct The project indeed aims to reduce India’s dependency on imported natural gas and support the Atmanirbhar mission, which focuses on self-reliance. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

President Droupadi Murmu receives Fiji’s Highest Civilian Award

Source: Indian Express

https://indianexpress.com/article/india/president-droupadi-murmu-receives-fijis-highest-civilian-award-9498924/  

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- International Relations

Context: Companion of the Order of Fiji 

Why in News 

• President Droupadi Murmu was conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji, the country’s highest civilian award.

Overview 

• This is Fiji’s highest civilian award, which recognizes distinguished contributions by individuals in various fields. 

• President Droupadi Murmu was honored with this award during her visit to Fiji. 
• The award symbolizes a high level of respect and acknowledges the significant role of the individual in enhancing bilateral relations and contributing to mutual goals.

Companion of the Order of Fiji 

• The Companion of the Order of Fiji is the most prestigious civilian award in Fiji. 
• It is conferred upon individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation or have shown outstanding service in various fields. 
• The award recognizes distinguished service or achievements that have significantly benefited Fiji or contributed to the betterment of its people.
• The award is typically given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service or have made remarkable contributions in areas such as public service, community development, international diplomacy, or other fields of national importance.

First Indian Head of State Visit

• President Murmu’s visit is noteworthy as it is the first time an Indian head of state has visited Fiji. 
• Such a visit typically aims to strengthen diplomatic ties, explore areas of cooperation, and highlight shared values and interests.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations:

• Partnership: President Murmu’s address emphasized India’s commitment to working closely with Fiji. She mentioned that India stands ready to partner with Fiji to build a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous nation. This indicates a willingness to collaborate on various fronts, including economic, social, and technological fields.
• Democracy and Equality: Murmu highlighted the common values shared between India and Fiji, such as democratic principles, human rights, and equality. She referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s earlier visit, where similar values were highlighted, reinforcing the strong democratic ties between the two nations.
• Enduring Values: By referencing these values, Murmu underlined the enduring nature of the relationship and the mutual respect both nations have for each other’s democratic systems and principles.

Observations on Fiji

• Fijian Way of Life: President Murmu praised Fiji’s way of life, describing it as gentle, respectful of traditions, and multicultural. This appreciation highlights the importance of cultural diplomacy, where understanding and respecting each other’s cultures can strengthen bilateral relationships.
• Worldly Lessons: She suggested that the world has much to learn from Fiji’s way of life, emphasizing how Fiji’s peaceful and respectful culture stands out globally.

New Projects and Initiatives

• Healthcare Development: One of the key announcements during the visit was the establishment of a Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital in Suva, Fiji. This project aims to address significant health needs in Fiji and the broader Pacific region.
• Impact on Fiji: The hospital is expected to provide advanced medical care, improve healthcare infrastructure, and address the priority health needs of the Fijian people. It demonstrates India’s commitment to supporting Fiji’s healthcare system and contributing to regional development.

Atmanirbhar Mission

• Supporting Fiji’s Development: The mention of the Atmanirbhar mission aligns with India’s broader strategy of promoting self-reliance and sustainable development in partner countries.
• By supporting healthcare and other development projects, India contributes to Fiji’s efforts to enhance its infrastructure and overall well-being.

Summary of the Visit’s Significance:

• Strengthening Ties: The visit represents a significant milestone in India-Fiji relations, symbolizing the strengthening of diplomatic and cultural ties. The conferment of the Companion of the Order of Fiji and the establishment of the Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital are key aspects of this strengthened relationship.
• Shared Values and Culture: President Murmu’s comments and the recognition she received reflect the deep cultural and value-based connections between the two nations. This cultural diplomacy enhances mutual understanding and respect.
• Development Projects: The new healthcare initiative highlights practical cooperation and tangible benefits arising from the partnership. It underscores the commitment of both countries to work together on projects that have a direct positive impact on the lives of people in Fiji.
  

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q4. The Companion of the Order is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions in various fields. Which of the following statements about the Companion of the Order is correct? The award is the highest civilian honor in Fiji. It is conferred only upon citizens of Fiji. It is presented solely for contributions to economic development. The award can only be given to individuals from the Commonwealth countries. Options:  1 only 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 1 and 4 only

Q. Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards. (2021) 1. Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are titles under the Article 18(1) of the Constitution of India. 2. Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, were suspended only once. 3. The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of five in a particular year. Which of the above statements are not correct? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans. (d)

Answer 4 A Explanation Statement 1 is correct. The Companion of the Order of Fiji is indeed Fiji’s highest civilian honor. Statement 2 is incorrect. The award is not limited to citizens of Fiji; it can be conferred upon foreign dignitaries as well. Statement 3 is incorrect. The award is not restricted to contributions in economic development but recognizes exceptional service in various fields. Statement 4 is incorrect. The award can be given to individuals from any nationality, not just Commonwealth countries. Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

Bill seeks to Expand NDMA role, fails to strengthen its status

Source: Indian Express

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/disaster-management-ndma-role-expansion-ndma-operational-efficiencies-natural-disaster-9499210/

UPSC Syllabus Relevance:  GS 2- Polity and Governance

Context: proposed amendments to the Disaster Management Act, 2005

Why in news 

• The proposed amendments to the Disaster Management Act, 2005, introduce several important changes aimed at enhancing disaster response and management in India.

Significance of the DM Act

• The DM Act was enacted in the aftermath of the devastating 2004 tsunami — the idea for such legislation was in the works at least since the 1998 Odisha super cyclone.
• The Act led to the creation of the NDMA, SDMAs at the state level, a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and a National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) — an institute meant for disaster-related research, training, awareness, and capacity building. 
• The Act was followed by a National Disaster Management Policy in 2009 and a National Disaster Management Plan in 2016.

Key Provisions of the Proposed Amendments 

• Urban Disaster Management Authorities (UDMAs):
  • Change: Establishment of UDMAs in large metropolitan cities, state capitals, and cities with municipal corporations, to be headed by the municipal commissioner.
  • Impact: This aims to improve city-level disaster management by ensuring a more coordinated approach to urban-specific issues such as flooding.
• State Disaster Response Forces (SDRFs):
  • Change: Mandate every state to create and maintain an SDRF.
  • Impact: Standardizes disaster response capabilities across states and ensures a more uniform approach to disaster management.
• Legal Status for National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC):
  • Change: Formalize the NCMC’s role as the primary body for handling national emergencies with serious ramifications.
  • Impact: Provides clearer authority and framework for national-level emergency management.
• Enhanced Role for NDMA:
  • Change: Broaden NDMA’s responsibilities to include periodic risk assessments and maintaining national disaster databases.
  • Impact: Strengthens NDMA’s role in disaster preparedness and response, and improves data availability for better decision-making.
• Disaster Databases:
  • Change: NDMA and SDMAs are required to create and maintain disaster databases.
  • Impact: Enhances transparency and efficiency in disaster management by providing comprehensive data on disasters.

Compensations:

• Change: NDMA to recommend guidelines for minimum standards of relief and compensation.
• Impact: Ensures consistency in the relief provided to disaster-affected individuals.

Definition of Disasters:

• Change: Clarifies that “man-made causes” exclude law-and-order situations like riots.
• Impact: Limits the scope of the Act, focusing it more on natural and environmental disasters.

Absence of Vice-Chairperson:

• Change: Legitimizes the role of a Member designated by the chairperson or vice-chairperson to handle day-to-day functions.
• Impact: Provides flexibility in leadership and management of the NDMA.

Unaddressed Issues

• Institutional Status of NDMA:
  • Concern: NDMA’s lack of elevation to a full-fledged ministry or department limits its operational authority and effectiveness.
  • Impact: NDMA’s current status as an executive body under the Home Ministry can hinder its ability to operate independently and efficiently.
• Leadership and Administrative Issues:
  • Concern: The vacant vice-chairperson position and the limited number of NDMA members reduce its operational capacity and influence.
  • Impact: Lack of a dedicated leader and insufficient staffing can lead to inefficiencies and a slower response to disasters.
• Financial and Administrative Powers:
  • Concern: NDMA’s dependence on the Home Ministry for administrative decisions can delay responses and reduce operational flexibility.
  • Impact: Streamlining financial and administrative powers could enhance NDMA’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to disasters.
    

CARE MCQ	UPSC PYQ
Q5. How will compensation for disaster victims be addressed according to the proposed amendments to the Disaster Management Act, 2005? A) Each state will set its own compensation guidelines B) The NDMA will recommend guidelines for minimum standards of relief and compensation C) Compensation will be managed solely by the Home Ministry D) Compensation provisions will be removed from the Act	Q. Which of the following are regarded as the main features of the “Rule of Law”? (2018) Limitation of powers Equality before law People’s responsibility to the Government Liberty and civil rights Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 3 only 2 and 4 only 1, 2 and 4 only 1, 2, 3 and 4 Ans: C

Answer 5 B Explanation Option A is incorrect: It would lead to varied standards of compensation across states, which is contrary to the objective of having uniform relief standards. Option B is correct: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is proposed to take on a more comprehensive role in the amended Act. One of the key responsibilities highlighted in the amendments is for the NDMA to recommend guidelines for minimum standards of relief and compensation. This means that NDMA will set the benchmark for what constitutes adequate relief and compensation for victims of disasters. Option C is incorrect: The proposed role of NDMA in setting standards; the Home Ministry may oversee or facilitate, but not solely manage. Option D is incorrect:  The Bill explicitly addresses compensation by recommending guidelines, indicating that compensation will continue to be a crucial component of disaster management. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.