Government of Uttar Pradesh

Introduction

Introduction to UP State Disaster Management Authority

The Uttar Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (UPSDMA) is a government agency responsible for coordinating and implementing disaster management efforts in Uttar Pradesh. 

Establishment and legal framework-
  • UPSDMA was established under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act of 2005 in Uttar Pradesh.
  • The Disaster Management Act of 2005 shifted the paradigm of disaster management from a relief-centric approach to a more holistic and integrated approach focused on prevention, mitigation, and preparedness. 
Structure and composition-
  • Chairperson: The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh serves as the ex officio Chairperson of the UPSDMA.
  • Vice-Chairperson: The Chairperson nominates one of the members as the Vice-Chairperson. The current Vice-Chairperson is Lt. Gen. Yogendra Dimri.
  • Members: The UPSDMA comprises a maximum of eight members, nominated by the Chairperson.
  • State Executive Committee (SEC): The SEC is an executive body supporting the UPSDMA, responsible for overseeing the implementation of the National Policy, National Plan and State Plan related to disaster management.
  • State Advisory Committee: The UPSDMA may also form advisory committees, comprising experts in disaster management, to provide recommendations. 
Roles and responsibilities-
  • Coordinate disaster management efforts within the state.
  • Lay down policies and plans for disaster management in the state.
  • Ensure that all state departments develop and implement disaster management plans.
  • Review development plans of various departments to integrate disaster prevention and mitigation measures.
  • Recommend provision of funds for mitigation and preparedness measures.
  • Coordinate the implementation of the State Disaster Management Plan.
  • Lay down guidelines for minimum standards of relief for disaster-affected persons.
  • Facilitate training and preparedness activities related to disaster management.
  • Focus on cross-cutting themes like medical preparedness, psycho-social care, community-based disaster preparedness, information and communication technology, and awareness generation. 

The UPSDMA plays a crucial role in building a safer and more resilient Uttar Pradesh by implementing a proactive, multi-disaster, technology-driven, and community-based approach to disaster management.