NEW DELHI: In a decisive step toward securing the future of its people, India’s Parliament has introduced the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, a landmark reform aimed at tackling the growing threats of climate-induced disasters. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in his address to the Rajya Sabha, stressed the urgency of this legislative shift, highlighting the alarming rise in extreme weather events—floods, cyclones, and heatwaves—that have already cost India over $87 billion annually, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). With climate disasters affecting over 3 billion people worldwide in the past two decades, India’s move aligns with global efforts to strengthen disaster resilience and climate adaptation.
This bill proposes a comprehensive, people-centric approach to disaster management, integrating climate risk assessments, improving institutional coordination, and establishing dedicated financial channels for disaster mitigation. It prioritizes community engagement, recognizing the critical role of local governance in building climate resilience from the grassroots. With over 35% of India’s coastal population at risk due to rising sea levels and frequent natural disasters, this policy shift is not just timely—it is essential for safeguarding millions of lives and livelihoods.
India’s commitment to climate action extends beyond domestic policy, solidifying its role as a global leader in sustainability. The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) has already laid the foundation for long-term resilience through eight core missions, including renewable energy expansion and sustainable agriculture. At COP26, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the Panchamrit Pledge, committing India to net-zero emissions by 2070 and expanding non-fossil energy capacity to 500 GW by 2030. India has also championed green energy solutions through the International Solar Alliance (ISA), now comprising 120+ member nations, and the LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) Movement, promoting sustainable living on a global scale.
As climate disasters escalate, countries worldwide are responding with policy overhauls. The European Green Deal targets climate neutrality by 2050, while the United States’ Inflation Reduction Act (2022) allocates $369 billion for climate resilience and green energy. Cities like Copenhagen have reengineered urban infrastructure to withstand extreme rainfall and prevent flooding. India’s latest legislative move places it among these global pioneers, reinforcing its commitment to both climate action and disaster preparedness.
Despite its ambitious scope, the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 faces challenges. Critics argue that rural and marginalized communities may still lack adequate protection, and bureaucratic inefficiencies could slow implementation. Greater investment in public-private partnerships and climate-tech innovations could further strengthen disaster resilience efforts. However, experts agree that this legislation marks a strategic and necessary intervention, especially as climate-related disasters pose one of the greatest threats to human security and economic stability.
India’s economic and environmental future is deeply tied to its ability to navigate the climate crisis with strong governance and innovation. A United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and OECD report suggests that ambitious climate action could boost global GDP by 0.2% by 2040, while inaction could shrink economies by 0.75% by 2030 due to worsening disasters. With this legislation, India not only strengthens its own climate resilience but also sets a powerful example for nations worldwide, proving that disaster preparedness and climate action are no longer choices—they are necessities.
By integrating climate risk into disaster management, accelerating renewable energy expansion, and fostering global collaboration, India is taking a defining step toward a safer, more resilient, and climate-secure future. The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is more than just a legal reform—it is a lifeline for millions, ensuring that India’s people, economy, and environment are protected in the face of an uncertain climate future.
–Dr. Shahid Siddiqui; Follow via X @shahidsiddiqui
