Who is the Executive Head of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)?

Who is the Executive Head of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)? Correct Answer Prime Minister of India

The correct answer is Prime Minister of India

• On 23 December 2005, the Government of India enacted the Disaster Management Act, which envisaged the creation of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), headed by the Prime Minister, and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) headed by respective Chief Ministers, to spearhead and implement a holistic and integrated approach to Disaster Management in India.

Key PointsOrganisation Structure:

• The National Disaster Management Authority has been constituted under the Disaster Management Act 2005, with the Prime Minister of India as its Chairman
• A Vice Chairman with the status of Cabinet Minister, and eight members with the status of Ministers of State.
• With well-defined functional domains for each of its members and concern to carry out the mandated functions, NDMA has evolved into a lean and professional organization which is IT-enabled and knowledge based. Skills and expertise of the specialists are extensively used to address disaster related issues.
• A functional and operational infrastructure has been built, which is appropriate for disaster management involving uncertainties coupled with desired plans of action.

Therefore, the correct answer is Prime Minister of India

Additional InformationFunctions and Responsibilities:

• Lay down policies on disaster management
• Approve the National Plan
• Approve plans prepared by the Ministries or Departments of the Government of India in accordance with the National Plan
• Lay down guidelines to be followed by the State Authorities in drawing up the State Plan
• Lay down guidelines to be followed by the different Ministries or Departments of the Government of India for the Purpose of integrating the measures for prevention of disaster or the mitigation of its effects in their development plans and projects
• Coordinate the enforcement and implementation of the policy and plans for disaster management
• Recommend provision of funds for the purpose of mitigation
• Provide such support to other countries affected by major disasters as may be determined by the Central Government
• Take such other measures for the prevention of disaster, or the mitigation, or preparedness and capacity building for dealing with threatening disaster situations or disasters as it may consider necessary
• Lay down broad policies and guidelines for the functioning of the National Institute of Disaster Management.