NANOPARTICLES
1. Context
2. About nanoparticles
2.1. Examples of nanoparticles
- Carbon nanotubes are cylindrical molecules made up of carbon atoms. They are incredibly strong and lightweight, and they have a wide range of potential applications in electronics, medicine, and energy.
- Graphene is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. It is the thinnest and strongest material known to science, and it has many potential applications in electronics, medicine, and energy.
- Quantum dots are tiny semiconductor nanoparticles that can emit light of different colours depending on their size. They are used in a variety of applications, including medical imaging, displays, and solar cells.
- Metal nanoparticles, such as gold nanoparticles and silver nanoparticles, have unique properties that make them useful in a variety of applications, including catalysis, sensing, and drug delivery.
- Ceramic nanoparticles, such as silica nanoparticles and titanium dioxide nanoparticles, are used in a variety of applications, including cosmetics, food packaging, and drug delivery.
- Liposomes are spherical vesicles made up of phospholipid molecules. They can be used to encapsulate drugs and other molecules, and they can be used to deliver these drugs to specific cells or tissues.
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Image Source: Nagwa2.2. Concerns associated with Nanoparticles
Nanoparticles have a wide range of potential applications, but they also pose some potential concerns, including:
- Nanoparticles can be toxic to cells and tissues. The toxicity of nanoparticles depends on a variety of factors, including the size, shape, surface chemistry, and composition of the nanoparticles.
- Nanoparticles can be released into the environment during manufacturing, use, and disposal. Nanoparticles can persist in the environment for long periods, and they can accumulate in the food chain.
- The long-term effects of nanoparticle exposure on human health and the environment are largely unknown. More research is needed to understand these potential effects.
- Carbon nanotubes can be inhaled and cause inflammation and damage to the lungs.
- Graphene can be sharp and could potentially damage cells and tissues.
- Quantum dots can be toxic to cells and tissues, and they could potentially accumulate in the brain.
- Metal nanoparticles can be toxic to cells and tissues, and they could potentially cause allergic reactions.
- Ceramic nanoparticles can be inhaled and cause inflammation and damage to the lungs.
- Liposomes can be toxic to cells and tissues if they are not properly formulated.
3. Action Plan for Delhi Climate
- Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced a 15-point winter action plan to tackle air pollution in the national capital.
- The plan is similar to last year's initiatives, but Kejriwal stressed that the issue of pollution extends beyond Delhi and urged neighbouring states in the NCR to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply to discourage the use of generator sets.
- A joint action plan with the CAQM and the Union government to address the shared problem of air pollution affecting not only Delhi but also Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
- Regarding stubble burning in Punjab, the efforts to reduce it have shown.
- The measures such as crop diversification, the cultivation of short-term paddy varieties, and ex-situ management of stubble as evidence of progress.
4. The Key initiatives for Delhi's winter action plan includes:
- Thirteen pollution hotspots have been identified, and special action plans have been devised for each location. Thirteen special teams and a dedicated war room will oversee efforts to control pollution in these areas.
- The use of PUSA bio decomposer in Delhi's farmland to deter stubble burning will continue, covering 5,000 acres this year.
- A total of 591 special teams will monitor construction sites, requiring sites larger than 500 sq m to install anti-smog guns. Mechanical road-sweeping machines, water-sprinkling machines, and anti-smog guns will be deployed to address dust pollution.
- A total of 385 teams will enforce vehicle pollution control measures, including checking Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates and prohibiting old diesel and petrol vehicles. Alternate routes will be promoted in congested areas.
- To tackle the open burning of garbage, 611 teams have been established for enforcement.
- Sixty-six teams will ensure that 1,727 registered industrial units in Delhi switch to Piped Natural Gas (PNG).
- A 24x7 Green War Room has been established for real-time monitoring and response.
- The Green Delhi App operational for three years, has addressed 90% of complaints received.
- A real-time source apportionment study will enable targeted action based on data.
- There is a complete ban on fireworks this year.
- Over 1 crore plants will be planted to increase green cover.
- A 20-acre E-waste eco-park is under development, with a consultant appointed.
- An awareness campaign, including the "Red Light On, Gaadi Off" initiative, will be conducted.
- Pollution doesn't recognize borders, so efforts to reduce pollution will involve coordination with other states. The vehicles coming from other states to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), industries in NCR areas to shift to PNG, provide 24x7 electricity, and impose a complete ban on firecrackers.
- Full enforcement of the Graded Response Action Plan.
5. The Way Forward
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For Prelims: Nano Particles, Air Pollution,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the key elements of Delhi's winter action plan to combat air pollution. How can similar strategies be adopted in other Indian cities facing air quality challenges? (250 Words)
2. Examine the challenges in regulating nanotechnology and suggest ways to ensure the safe and responsible development and use of nanoparticles. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2022)
1. Other than those made by humans, nanoparticles do not exist in nature.
2. Nanoparticles of some metallic oxides are used in the manufacture of some cosmetics.
3. Nanoparticles of same commercial products which enter the environment are unsafe for humans.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 3 only C. 1 and 2 D. 2 and 3
Answer: D
2. There is some concern regarding the nanoparticles of some chemical elements that are used by the industry in the manufacture of various products. Why? (UPSC CSE 2014)
1. They can accumulate in the environment, and contaminate water and soil.
2. They can enter the food chains.
3. They can trigger the production of free radicals.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
3. In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index? ( UPSC CSE 2016)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only Answer: B 4. Acid rain is caused by the pollution of the environment (UPSC CSE 2013) (a) Carbon Dioxide and Nitrogen (b) Carbon Monoxide and Carbon Dioxide (c) Ozone and Carbon Dioxide (d) Nitrous Oxide and Sulphur Dioxide Answer: D 5. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for (UPSC CSE 2017) (a) Measuring oxygen level in blood (b) Computing oxygen levels in forest ecosystems (c) Pollution assay in aquatic ecosystem (d) Assessing oxygen levels in high-altitude regions Answer: C |
Source: The Indian Express
DYNAMIC INJUCTION
- An injunction is an official order given by a law court, usually to stop someone from doing something. However, in most cases, such injunctions are granted by the court only after the court identifies the work and determines the plaintiff’s copyright in that work.
- To avoid this cumbersome process and grant protection to copyrighted works in a timely manner, courts sometimes rely on the concept of “dynamic” injunctions.
- A dynamic injunction is passed to protect copyrighted works even before they are publicly released, distributed, or created.
- It ensures that no irreparable loss is caused to its authors and owner, owing to the imminent possibility of such works being uploaded on rogue websites or their newer versions immediately after their creation or release, given the challenges posed by online piracy.
Copyright is a legal concept that grants the creators of original creative works certain exclusive rights to their creations. These exclusive rights are designed to protect the intellectual property of creators and provide them with control over how their work is used, reproduced, and distributed. Copyright law varies from country to country, but it generally encompasses the following key aspects:
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Exclusive Rights: Copyright gives creators exclusive rights to:
- Reproduction: The right to make copies of the work.
- Distribution: The right to distribute copies to the public.
- Public Display and Performance: The right to publicly display or perform the work.
- Derivative Works: The right to create derivative works based on the original (e.g., adaptations, translations, and remixes).
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Duration: Copyright protection is not permanent but typically lasts for a specific duration. In many countries, including the United States, the duration of copyright protection extends for the lifetime of the creator plus an additional 70 years. For works created by corporations or anonymous authors, copyright protection may extend for a fixed number of years from creation or publication.
- Automatic Protection: In most jurisdictions, copyright protection is automatic as soon as a work is created and fixed in a tangible medium. Registration or formal notice is not usually required, although it can provide certain legal benefits
- Copyright Infringement: Unauthorized use of copyrighted material that violates the exclusive rights of the creator is known as copyright infringement. This can result in legal consequences, including fines and injunctions.
Section 37 deals with a “special right” extended to every broadcasting organisation.
Section 37 (2) proceeds to enlist what constitutes an infringement of this right. It states that “during the continuance of a broadcast reproduction right” any person who, without the licence of the right’s owner engages in re-broadcasting the broadcast; or causes the broadcast to be heard or seen by the public on payment of charges; or makes any sound or visual recording of the broadcast; or makes any reproduction of such sound or visual recording where the initial recording was done without licence or was licensed, for any purpose not envisaged by the licence; or sells or hires to the public, or offers for such sale or hire, any such sound recording or visual recording, will be deemed to have infringed this right, subject to the provisions of Section 39.
Source: indianexpress
ATOM AND MOLECULE
The Nobel Prize in Physics for 2023 has gone to three scientists whose work made it easier to observe electrons, and which has potential applications in the field of diagnosing diseases and developing electronic gadgets.
Anne L’Huillier, Pierre Agostini, and Ferenc Krausz have been awarded for their experiments “which have given humanity new tools for exploring the world of electrons inside atoms and molecules. They have demonstrated a way to create extremely short pulses of light that can be used to measure the rapid processes in which electrons move or change energy,” said the Nobel Prizes website
2. What is an Atom?.
- An atom is the basic unit of matter and the fundamental building block of chemical elements. Atoms are incredibly small and make up everything in the universe, including solids, liquids, gases, and even living organisms. They are the smallest entities that retain the properties of a chemical element.
- The size of an atom can be somewhat challenging to define precisely because atoms do not have well-defined boundaries like macroscopic objects. Instead, they have a finite volume where there is a high probability of finding electrons.
- The size of an atom is typically described in terms of its atomic radius, which represents the average distance from the nucleus to the outermost electron cloud
- The size of atoms can vary depending on the specific element and its electron configuration. However, a rough estimate of the typical size of an atom is on the order of 0.1 to 0.2 nanometers (nm), or about 1 to 2 angstroms (Å).
- For example, the atomic radius of a hydrogen atom is approximately 0.053 nm (0.53 Å), while the atomic radius of a helium atom is about 0.049 nm (0.49 Å).
Key characteristics and components of an atom include:
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Nucleus: At the center of an atom is the nucleus, which contains two types of subatomic particles:
- Protons: Positively charged particles found in the nucleus.
- Neutrons: Neutrally charged (no charge) particles also located in the nucleus.
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Electrons: Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus in electron shells or energy levels. These electrons move rapidly around the nucleus in specific energy levels or orbits.
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Subatomic Structure: Atoms consist of a specific number of protons, neutrons, and electrons. The number of protons defines the element and gives it its unique chemical properties. The sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus is referred to as the atomic mass or mass number.
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Neutral Charge: Atoms are electrically neutral because the number of protons in the nucleus is equal to the number of electrons in orbit. The positive charge of protons cancels out the negative charge of electrons, resulting in a net charge of zero.
- Isotopes: Some elements can have variations in the number of neutrons, resulting in different atomic isotopes of the same element. Isotopes of an element have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.
Here are some key points about molecules:
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Composition: Molecules are composed of atoms. The atoms in a molecule are held together by chemical bonds, which can be covalent (sharing of electrons) or ionic (transfer of electrons).
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Chemical Formula: Molecules are represented by chemical formulas that indicate the types and numbers of atoms in the molecule. For example, the chemical formula for water (H2O) tells us that one molecule of water consists of two hydrogen atoms (H) bonded to one oxygen atom (O).
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Stable Structures: Molecules represent stable and distinct structures. When atoms come together to form molecules, they achieve a more stable and lower-energy state than when they are isolated.
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Properties: The properties of a substance, including its physical and chemical properties, are determined by the types of molecules it contains and how those molecules are arranged and interact with each other.
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Size: Molecules can vary in size from small and simple, like the diatomic molecules mentioned earlier, to very large and complex, such as the DNA molecule in living organisms.
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Bonding: The way atoms are bonded together within a molecule can have a significant impact on the molecule's properties. For example, covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons and result in molecules with distinct shapes and properties, while ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons between atoms.
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Reactivity: Molecules can participate in chemical reactions. During a chemical reaction, molecules can break apart and form new molecules through the rearrangement of atoms and bonds.
- An atom, a tiny unit into which matter can be divided, is composed of a nucleus of protons and neutrons, and electrons that travel around this nucleus. Electrons move so fast that it is impossible to observe them in real time.
- The work of L’Huillier, Agostini, and Krausz has brought humanity closer to observing and studying the movement of electrons, by producing pulses of light that last only attoseconds, which is 1×10−18 of a second.
- Roughly, this can be compared to a high-shutter-speed camera. If a normal camera is used to capture a moving train, the image will be blurred. But a high shutter-speed camera can freeze motion and capture a clear image of the train
- All three worked in the field for years. According to the Nobel website, back in 1987, L’Huillier discovered that when a laser light wave was passed through a noble gas, it interacted with the atoms, giving some electrons extra energy that was then emitted as light. She continued to work on this.
- These flashes of light made it possible to provide images of processes inside atoms.
- We can now open the door to the world of electrons. Attosecond physics gives us the opportunity to understand mechanisms that are governed by electrons. The next step will be utilising them
- One possible application is to study molecular-level changes in blood, to identify diseases
- A better understanding of how electrons move and transmit energy can also help in creating more efficient electronic gadgets.
MILITANTS AND TERRORISTS
1. Context
A militant is a person who is engaged in or advocating armed conflict. The term is often used to describe members of armed groups that are not part of a formal state military or police force. Militants may be motivated by a variety of factors, including political, religious, or ideological beliefs.
3. Terrorism in Indian law
3.1. Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 15 (1)(2)
An act of terrorism is an act of violence that is intended to create terror or panic in the public or a section of the public or to coerce or intimidate the Government of India or any State Government or to cause disruption in the essential services or to strike terror in a section of the public or to create a sense of insecurity or fear in the public.
3.2. The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) Section 15
An act of terrorism is any act of violence that is intended to create terror or panic in the public or a section of the public or to coerce or intimidate the Government of India or any State Government or to cause disruption in the essential services or to strike terror in a section of the public or to create a sense of insecurity or fear in the public.
The UAPA also defines terrorist acts as follows:
Any act which
The UAPA also lists certain offences as terrorist acts, such as the following:
The UAPA also empowers the Government to designate certain individuals or organizations as terrorists. This designation allows the Government to take certain actions against the designated individuals or organizations, such as freezing their assets and seizing their property.
4. The difference between Militants and Terrorists
Militants and terrorists are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two.
Militant is a general term that refers to someone who is engaged in or advocating armed conflict. Militants may be motivated by a variety of factors, including political, religious, or ideological beliefs.
Terrorist is a more specific term that refers to someone who uses violence or the threat of violence to achieve political, religious, or ideological goals. Terrorists often target civilians to create fear and panic and to coerce governments to change their policies.
The key differences between militants and terrorists:
| Characteristic | Militant | Terrorist |
| Definition | A person who is engaged in or advocating armed conflict. | A person who uses violence or the threat of violence to achieve political, religious, or ideological goals. |
| Targets | May or may not target civilians. | Specifically targets civilians. |
| Motivation | May be motivated by a variety of factors, including political, religious, or ideological beliefs. | Motivated by political, religious, or ideological goals. |
5. Types of terrorism
Terrorism is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, and it can be categorized into various types based on different criteria. Some of the common types of terrorism include:
- Political Terrorism is motivated by political ideologies or objectives. Groups or individuals engaged in political terrorism seek to influence government policies, overthrow governments, or establish a new political order. Examples include groups fighting for national liberation, separatist movements, or those seeking to impose a specific political ideology.
- Religious Terrorism Religious terrorists use religious beliefs as the basis for their actions. They may seek to establish a religious state, eliminate perceived enemies of their faith, or promote their religious beliefs through violence. Examples include jihadist groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS.
- Some governments may sponsor terrorist activities to advance their political or strategic interests. State-sponsored terrorism can involve providing funding, training, or safe havens to terrorist groups. State-sponsored terrorism can be used as a tool of foreign policy or to destabilize rival nations.
- Ideological terrorists are driven by a particular ideology or belief system that is not necessarily political or religious. This category includes groups with extreme ideologies such as eco-terrorism (committing acts of violence to protect the environment), anarchist terrorism (opposing all forms of government and authority), or anti-globalization terrorism (opposing globalization and multinational corporations).
- Narcoterrorism involves the use of violence by drug trafficking organizations to protect and expand their illicit drug trade. These groups use terrorism to intimidate law enforcement, government officials, and rival drug cartels.
- Cyberterrorism involves the use of computer technology to carry out acts of terrorism. This can include hacking into computer systems to disrupt critical infrastructure, steal sensitive information, or spread propaganda. While cyberterrorism has the potential to cause significant harm, it is a relatively newer form of terrorism.
- Domestic terrorism occurs within a country's borders and is perpetrated by individuals or groups against their fellow citizens. These terrorists may have a variety of motivations, including racial, ethnic, or ideological grievances. Examples include acts of domestic extremism in the United States, such as the Oklahoma City bombing.
- Single-issue terrorists focus on a specific issue or cause, often related to social or environmental concerns. They commit acts of terrorism to draw attention to their cause or force change on a particular issue. For example, animal rights activists might engage in acts of terrorism to combat animal cruelty.
- Biological, Chemical, and Nuclear Terrorism involve the use of biological, chemical, or nuclear agents to cause mass casualties or damage. The threat of biological and chemical terrorism is often associated with the potential use of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).
- Cyberterrorism involves using technology, particularly the internet, to carry out acts of terrorism. This can include hacking into computer systems, launching cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, and spreading propaganda online. Cyberterrorism can have significant consequences in the digital age.
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Image Source: The Indian Express6. The reasons for terrorism especially in Jammu and Kashmir
There are several reasons for terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, including:
- Jammu and Kashmir is a relatively poor region with high unemployment. This lack of opportunity has made some people more susceptible to the promises of militant groups.
- The spread of radical ideology, both online and offline, has also played a role in the rise of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. This ideology often glorifies violence and martyrdom, and it can make some people more likely to carry out terrorist attacks.
- Jammu and Kashmir is a Muslim-majority region, and some terrorist groups in the region are motivated by religious extremism. These groups often claim to be fighting for an Islamic state in Kashmir.
- The people of Jammu and Kashmir have long demanded greater political autonomy from the Indian government. This demand has been met with resistance from the Indian government, which has led to a sense of alienation and frustration among some people in the region.
- Terrorist groups use propaganda to radicalize young people and recruit them into their ranks. This propaganda often portrays the Indian government as repressive and anti-Muslim.
- The porous border between India and Pakistan makes it easy for terrorist groups to obtain weapons.
- Pakistan has been accused of supporting terrorist groups in Jammu and Kashmir, including Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. Pakistan has denied these allegations, but there is evidence to suggest that it provides financial and military assistance to these groups.
7. The components of terrorism
The key components of terrorism are
- Terrorism is a criminal act that involves the use of violence or the threat of violence to achieve political, religious, or ideological goals.
- Terrorism is designed to create fear and panic in the public. This can be done through acts of violence, such as bombings or shootings, or threats of violence, such as hostage-taking or hijacking.
- Terrorists often target civilians to achieve their goals. This is because civilians are more likely to be vulnerable and less likely to be able to defend themselves.
- Terrorism is motivated by political, religious, or ideological goals. Terrorists use violence to try to achieve these goals, such as overthrowing a government, establishing a new state, or spreading their ideology.
- Terrorist attacks are typically planned in advance. Terrorist groups often spend months or even years planning an attack.
- Terrorist attacks often require a high degree of coordination. Terrorist groups often work together to plan and execute attacks.
- Terrorist groups often try to keep their plans secret. This is so that they can avoid detection by law enforcement and security agencies.
- Terrorist groups often use propaganda to justify their actions and to recruit new members.
- Terrorists seek publicity for their attacks to achieve their goals. They want to create fear and panic and send a message to their targets and the public at large.
8. Conclusion
Addressing terrorism requires a multifaceted approach, including intelligence and law enforcement efforts, international cooperation, counter-radicalization programs, and addressing the underlying grievances that may contribute to the recruitment of individuals into terrorist groups.
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For Prelims: Terrorism, Militants, Jammu and Kashmir, The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Indian Penal Code
For Mains:
1. Explain the role of intelligence agencies in countering terrorism. Highlight the importance of international cooperation in intelligence sharing to combat global terrorism. (250 Words)
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ASSOCIATION FOR DEMOCRATIC REFORMS (ADR)
- ADR works towards increasing transparency in the functioning of political parties, candidates, and the government.
- It does this by collecting and disseminating information related to the financial aspects of elections, such as campaign expenditures and sources of political funding
- ADR advocates for electoral reforms to improve the electoral process in India.
- This includes advocating for stricter regulations on campaign financing, promoting inner-party democracy, and enhancing the disclosure of criminal records and assets of candidates
- ADR aims to empower voters by providing them with information about the criminal backgrounds, financial status, and other relevant details of candidates contesting elections. This helps voters make informed decisions when casting their ballots
- The organization conducts extensive research and analysis on various aspects of Indian elections and politics. They publish reports and studies that shed light on the state of democracy in India and propose reforms
- ADR has been involved in legal cases related to electoral and political reforms. They have filed public interest litigations (PILs) in courts to push for greater transparency and accountability in the political sphere
Hate speech can take many forms, including but not limited to:
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Verbal Attacks: Expressing hatred, prejudice, or discriminatory beliefs through spoken words or public speeches.
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Written Content: Publishing or distributing written material, such as pamphlets, flyers, or online posts, that promote hatred or discrimination.
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Symbolic Expressions: Using symbols, gestures, or other non-verbal means to convey hateful or discriminatory messages.
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Online Hate Speech: Posting offensive or discriminatory content on social media platforms, websites, or online forums.
- Free speech encompasses the freedom of expression, which includes spoken and written words, artistic creations, symbolic acts, and various forms of communication. It allows individuals to convey their thoughts and ideas through various mediums.
- The principle of free speech primarily protects individuals from government censorship or suppression of their speech. It ensures that the government cannot prohibit or punish individuals for expressing their opinions, even if those opinions are unpopular or controversial.
- Free speech is vital for the functioning of a democratic society. It enables citizens to engage in open and robust public debate, criticize government actions, advocate for change, and hold those in power accountable
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For Prelims: Indian Polity and Governance-Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc
For Mains: General Studies II: Development processes and the development industry the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders
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Previous Year Questions
Article 19(1) of the Constitution of India, as it stands amended, includes which of the following? (UPSC CDS I 2022)
1. Freedom of speech and expression
2. Assemble peaceably and without arms
3. To acquire and dispose property
4. To move freely throughout the territory of India
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A.1 and 2 only
B.1, 2, 3 and 4
C.4 only
D.1, 2 and 4 only
Answer (D)
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SENDAI FRAMEWORK
1. Context
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday informed that the 6th World Congress on Disaster Management will be held from November 28 to December 1 in Dehradun at the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority. The event is organised jointly by the Hyderabad and Uttarakhand State Council of Science and Technology.
2. What is a Disaster?
The United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) (2009) defines a disaster as: “A serious disruption of the functioning of a community or a society involving widespread human, material, economic or environmental losses and impacts, which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope using its own resources.”
As per the Disaster Management Act 2005, “Disaster” means a catastrophe, mishap, calamity, or grave occurrence in any area, arising from natural or manmadẹ causes, or by accident or negligence which results in substantial loss of life or human suffering or damage to, and destruction of, property, or damage to, or degradation of, environment, and is of such a nature or magnitude as to be beyond the coping capacity of the community of the affected area. UNISDR considers disaster to be a result of the combination of many factors such as
- exposure to hazards;
- conditions of vulnerability that are present, and
- insufficient capacity or measures to reduce or cope with the potential negative consequences.
3. What is Disaster Management?
According to the Disaster Management Act 2005, disaster management can be defined as an integrated process of planning, coordinating, organizing, and implementing measures that are necessary for
- Rehabilitation and reconstruction
- Prompt response to any threatening disaster
- Mitigation of any disaster or its consequences
- Preparedness to deal with any disaster
- Evacuation, rescue, and relief of the survivors
- Capacity building
- Assessing the severity of the after-effects of any disaster
4. Types of Disaster Management
- Natural Disaster Management: Natural disasters are those which occur naturally due to a difference in the climate or the concerned body (water/earth). The natural disaster caused may be a result of steady or rapid disturbances in nature that have an impact on livelihood. These disasters can be harmful to both life and property. Earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides, epidemics, and wildlife fires are some common examples of natural disasters.
- A Man-Made Disaster: As the name suggests, man-made disasters are caused by the disturbances created by some notorious elements in society, or they can be to meet the lifestyle requirements of humans, which results in environmental degradation. Bomb blasts, biological weapons, deforestation, Pollution, accidents (rope-way, passenger bus), etc, are some of the man-made disasters to human lives.
5. Sendai Framework
- The Sendai Framework works hand in hand with the other 2030 Agenda agreements, including The Paris Agreement on Climate Change, The Addis Ababa Action Agenda on Financing for Development, the New Urban Agenda, and ultimately the Sustainable Development Goals.
- It was endorsed by the UN General Assembly following the 2015 Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (WCDRR), and advocates for The Substantial reduction of disaster risk and losses in lives, livelihoods, and health and in the economic, physical, social, cultural, and environmental assets of persons, businesses, communities, and countries.
- It recognizes that the State has the primary role to reduce disaster risk but that responsibility should be shared with other stakeholders including local government, the private sector, and other stakeholders.
Image Source: UNDRR 6. Priorities of Sendai Framework
- Priority 1. Understanding disaster risk: Disaster risk management should be based on an understanding of disaster risk in all its dimensions of vulnerability, capacity, exposure of persons and assets, hazard characteristics, and the environment. Such knowledge can be used for risk assessment, prevention, mitigation, preparedness, and response.
- Priority 2. Strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk: Disaster risk governance at the national, regional, and global levels is very important for prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, and rehabilitation. It fosters collaboration and partnership.
- Priority 3. Investing in disaster risk reduction for resilience: Public and private investment in disaster risk prevention and reduction through structural and non-structural measures are essential to enhance the economic, social, health, and cultural resilience of persons, communities, countries, and their assets, as well as the environment.
- Priority 4. Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response and to “Build Back Better” in recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction: The growth of disaster risk means there is a need to strengthen disaster preparedness for response, take action in anticipation of events, and ensure capacities are in place for effective response and recovery at all levels. The recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction phase is a critical opportunity to build back better, including through integrating disaster risk reduction into development measures.
7. Targets and Indicators
- The Sendai Framework focuses on the adoption of measures that address the three dimensions of disaster risk (exposure to hazards, vulnerability and capacity, and hazard’s characteristics) in order to prevent the creation of new risks, reduce existing risk and increase resilience.
- The Sendai Framework outlines seven global targets to guide and against which to assess progress.
- The Sendai Framework Monitor is an online tool that captures self-reported (by member states) progress data against a set of 38 Sendai Framework indicators toward the seven Sendai Framework global targets.
- The indicators measure progress and determine global trends in the reduction of risk and losses.
8. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
- National Disaster Response Force is a specialized force constituted by the Indian government to deal with natural disasters and emergencies. It is a paramilitary organization under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was raised in 2006 following the devastating tsunami that hit India’s coastal areas. The primary objective of NDRF is to provide a timely, adequate, and effective response to disasters and emergencies.
- NDRF is equipped with specialized rescue equipment and has a well-trained team of personnel who are capable of dealing with any type of emergency. The force is also responsible for providing humanitarian assistance during disasters.
9. Roles and Responsibilities of NDRF
The roles and responsibilities of the National Disaster Response Force include:
- Providing a timely and effective response to disasters and emergencies
- Carrying out rescue operations
- Providing humanitarian assistance during disasters
- Undertaking relief and rehabilitation measures in coordination with other agencies.
10. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- NDMA is India’s apex statutory body for disaster management.
- NDMA was formally constituted on 27th September 2006, by the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
- The Prime Minister is its chairperson and it has nine other members. One of the nine members is designated as Vice-Chairperson.
- Disaster Management Act also envisaged the creation of State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) headed by respective Chief Ministers and the District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMA) headed by the District Collectors/ District Magistrate and co-chaired by Chairpersons of the local bodies.
- The primary responsibility for the management of disaster rests with the State Government concerned. However, the National Policy on Disaster Management puts in place an enabling environment for all i.e., the Centre, state, and district.
- Aim: to spearhead and implement a holistic and integrated approach to Disaster Management in India. To build a safer and disaster-resilient India through a holistic, pro-active, technology-driven, and sustainable development strategy that involves all stakeholders and fosters a culture of prevention, preparedness, and mitigation.
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For Prelims: Senadai Framework, Disaster Management Act 2005, UN General Assembly, UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (WCDRR), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs), District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMA).
For Mains: 1. What is Sendai Framework? Discuss the Priorities, targets, and indicators of the Sendai Framework (250 Words)
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