AMRAVATI, Jan 19: India has positioned itself as a global leader in disaster management, setting a ‘zero casualty’ goal during emergencies, as stated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday, highlighting the robust infrastructure in disaster management.
Shah also pointed out the support from the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government for Andhra Pradesh, revealing that over Rs 3 lakh crore in projects has been approved by the Centre for the state in a mere six months.
Speaking at the 20th Foundation Day celebrations of the NDRF in Kondapavuluru, Krishna district, he inaugurated the southern campus of the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) and the 10th Battalion campus of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) near Vijayawada, while also laying foundation stones for various projects worth approximately Rs 220 crore.
“I can confidently say that the on-ground implementation of NDMA policies by the NDRF has significantly contributed to establishing India as a leader in disaster management worldwide. India leads in creating disaster-resilient infrastructure with the establishment of CDRI,” he remarked.
He mentioned that the Modi government has brought substantial changes in the disaster management approach, methodology, and objectives.
Shah described the earlier disaster approach as relief-centric, which has now shifted to a ‘rescue-centric’ focus aimed at saving lives during disasters. This comprehensive change in disaster management strategies has been initiated since the Modi government took office in 2014.
He noted that the working style has transitioned from reactive to proactive, adopting a ‘zero casualty’ goal during disasters, made possible through the collaboration of NDRF, NDMA, and NIDM.
In a short period, NDRF has gained credibility not only across India but also on a global scale, he stated.
Shah recalled his field visits as Home Minister during various disasters over the last six years, where he observed that the presence of NDRF personnel instilled confidence in people regarding their safety.
Reflecting on past events, he noted that during a cyclone in Odisha, there were 10,000 fatalities, whereas, in the past two years, despite the occurrence of two cyclones, the goal of zero casualties has been met.
He highlighted the NDRF’s contributions in countries like Nepal, Indonesia, Turkey, Myanmar, and Vietnam, which have been acknowledged and praised by their leaders.
According to Shah, the Narendra Modi government allocated Rs 61,000 crore for disaster management under the 14th Finance Commission, compared to only Rs 12,500 crore under the 12th Finance Commission.
He further stated that under PM Modi’s guidance, India established the CDRI (Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure), which now includes 48 member countries.
Shah reiterated the Modi government’s commitment to Andhra Pradesh by announcing over Rs 3 lakh crore in approved projects for the state in just six months.
Additionally, PM Modi has facilitated Rs 27,000 crore for the development of Amaravati through HUDCO and the World Bank.
Taking a swipe at the previous YSRCP administration, Shah urged the people of Andhra Pradesh not to dwell on the “wasted” five years, stating that Chief Minister Naidu and PM Modi would collaborate with renewed determination to develop the state.
“I assure you that the Narendra Modi government stands firmly behind Chandrababu Naidu for the development of Andhra Pradesh,” he declared.
He predicted that following significant victories in the 2024 Assembly elections in Maharashtra and Haryana, the NDA is set to form the government in Delhi by early 2025.
While NDRF responds to natural disasters, the NDA commits to helping people during “man-made” crises.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu requested the Union Minister to ensure ongoing central support until the state achieves full recovery.
He expressed gratitude to Shah for the Centre’s revival package for the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant and funding for the Polavaram Irrigation project and Amaravati Capital project.
Among the dignitaries present were Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and Union Ministers K Ram Mohan Naidu and Bandi Sanjay Kumar.
Shah also virtually inaugurated a new ‘Integrated Indoor Shooting Range’ at the National Police Academy (NPA) in Hyderabad, intended for training IPS probationary officers in shooting skills. (PTI)
