Central Government Allocates ₹1,554 Crore for Disaster Relief
The Central Government has approved a substantial financial assistance package of ₹1,554.99 crore for states affected by severe natural disasters, including floods and landslides, during 2024. This funding, sourced from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), aims to support recovery efforts in Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland, Odisha, Telangana, and Tripura. The decision follows on-the-ground assessments conducted by an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) in the impacted regions.
State Governments Lead Disaster Management Efforts
According to the National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM), the responsibility for managing disaster relief primarily lies with state governments. Each state utilizes its State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to implement relief measures following natural calamities. The Central Government plays a supportive role, providing logistical and financial assistance as needed. In cases of severe disasters, additional funding from the NDRF is made available, contingent upon assessments conducted by the IMCT.
During the recent assessments, the IMCT visited various affected areas, including Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland, Odisha, Telangana, and Tripura. Based on their findings, the Central Government approved the allocation of ₹1,554.99 crore on February 13, 2025. This amount is subject to a 50% adjustment based on the opening balance of the SDRF in each state. The breakdown of the approved funds includes ₹608.08 crore for Andhra Pradesh, ₹170.99 crore for Nagaland, ₹255.24 crore for Odisha, ₹231.75 crore for Telangana, and ₹288.93 crore for Tripura.
Kerala’s Response to Landslides and Floods
In response to the devastating landslides and flash floods in Wayanad, Kerala, the IMCT conducted an assessment from August 8 to August 10, 2024. Following their evaluation, the Central Government approved ₹153.47 crore for relief efforts, which includes funding for airlift operations using Indian Air Force helicopters and debris clearance. This financial support is also subject to a 50% adjustment based on the SDRF balance.
Additionally, Kerala has been allocated ₹388 crore for the financial year 2024-25 under the SDRF, with the first installment of ₹145.60 crore released on July 31, 2024, and a second installment of the same amount released on October 1, 2024. As of April 1, 2024, Kerala’s SDRF account reported a balance of ₹394.99 crore, ensuring sufficient funds are available for ongoing relief operations.
Post-Disaster Needs Assessment and Future Plans
Following the recent disasters, the Kerala government conducted a Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA), estimating a total recovery and reconstruction requirement of ₹2,219 crore. In response, the Central Government has formed a Multi-Sectoral Team to facilitate further actions in line with established guidelines for recovery funding. These guidelines are accessible on the Ministry of Home Affairs’ website, ensuring transparency and accountability in the allocation of disaster relief funds.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Shri Nityanand Rai, provided this information in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting states in their recovery efforts following natural disasters.
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