Q.18. Distinguish between natural and manmade disasters. Also, elucidate the effectiveness of the disaster management system in India.

Natural and manmade disasters are two distinct types of catastrophic events that can cause significant damage and loss of life. Here’s how they differ:

Natural Disasters:

• Caused by natural phenomena such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and wildfires.

• Unpredictable and often difficult to prevent.

• Can be influenced by human actions, such as climate change, but are primarily due to natural forces.

Manmade Disasters:

• Result from human activities, including industrial accidents, terrorist attacks, and war.

• Often preventable through proper planning, safety measures, and risk management.

• Can be amplified by natural forces but are primarily due to human error or negligence.

As for the effectiveness of the disaster management system in India, it has shown improvement over the years, particularly in response to natural disasters like cyclones. The successful handling of Cyclone Fani is an example of the system’s capabilities.

However, challenges remain, such as adapting to climate change, improving urban planning, ensuring last-mile connectivity, and managing man-made disaster risks. 

Addressing these issues is crucial for enhancing overall disaster resilience and response capabilities in the country. The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) plays a key role in training, capacity building, and developing disaster management systems to improve India’s preparedness and response to disasters.