States can use disaster funds for heatwaves, but need stronger planning and implementation
The Ministry of Home Affairs has added heatwaves and lightning to India's list of notified natural calamities, making them eligible for full State Disaster Risk Management Fund (SDRMF) pool. This change, based on the Sixteenth Finance Commission's recommendation, removes previous funding ceilings for heatwave-related losses. While the total fund allocation has increased, States need to strengthen planning and implementation of Heat Action Plans (HAPs) to effectively utilize these funds. The analysis highlights India's growing exposure to extreme heat and the need for robust mitigation strategies.
Key Points
- Heatwaves and lightning are now notified natural calamities, making them eligible for full SDRMF funding.
- The Sixteenth Finance Commission recommended a significant increase in State disaster funds.
- States need to strengthen planning and implementation of Heat Action Plans (HAPs) to effectively use the funds.
- India faces growing exposure to extreme heat, necessitating robust risk reduction strategies.
Exam Facts
- Heatwaves and lightning are added to India's list of 14 notified natural calamities.
- The Sixteenth Finance Commission (FC-XVI) recommended ₹2.04 lakh crore for State disaster funds (2026-31).
- The SDRF is for immediate response, relief, and reconstruction; SDMF for longer-term risk reduction.
- Only 300 cities and districts have Heat Action Plans (HAPs) out of 4,800 urban local bodies and 800 districts.
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