New Delhi, September 10 (Daily Kiran) : Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated on September 10 that there has been a significant transformation in disaster management strategies over the past 12 years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Speaking at the third meeting of the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) governing body, Shah highlighted that the Modi government has completely revamped the disaster management system, setting a goal of achieving ‘zero casualty’ during disasters.
He noted, “We have successfully faced several disasters with the aim of ‘zero casualty,’ which is a major achievement. Previously, disasters were viewed solely from the perspective of relief and rehabilitation. Today, we have entered a new era based on three pillars: risk reduction, early warning systems, and ‘zero casualty.’ This is a matter of pride for all of us.”
Shah emphasized that the ‘whole of government’ approach is becoming a crucial part of their operational strategy. He explained that all government departments actively respond whenever a disaster strikes. With the strength of new research, there is a need to expedite processes and ensure continuous monitoring.
He reiterated that just as the ‘whole of government’ approach has been adopted for disaster response, it should also be utilized to strengthen the disaster management system further.
The Home Minister also pointed out that Prime Minister Modi has placed special emphasis on environmental protection, asserting that it is the most effective way to prevent disasters. He stated, “Environmental protection, risk reduction, resilience, and a comprehensive national approach are gradually helping India emerge as a model for the world.”
Shah reflected on the history of the NIDM, recalling a time when its predecessor, the National Center for Disaster Management, was nearly inactive in a corner of the Agriculture Ministry. In 2003, then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee made a historic decision to revitalize it, recognizing the need for a broader scope and coordination among various agencies by bringing the institute under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
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