Disaster management and public policy in India: Governance, institutional frameworks, and community resilience

Abstract

Disaster management policy in India has undergone a significant transformation from a fragmented, reactive relief model to a holistic governance system prioritizing risk reduction and resilience. The Disaster Management Act of 2005 established a comprehensive institutional framework encompassing the national, state, and district levels, shaping coordinated disaster governance. This paper critically examines how public policy instruments have influenced institutional coordination, governance mechanisms, and community participation in disaster risk reduction. Drawing on an extensive review of policy documents, institutional reports, and empirical studies, the research identifies key challenges in policy implementation, including capacity constraints, governance gaps, and inclusivity barriers. It proposes strategic pathways focusing on adaptive policymaking, effective inter-agency collaboration, and stronger community engagement to bolster disaster resilience in India. The study underscores the pivotal role of coherent institutional design and participatory governance approaches in navigating India’s complex disaster risk landscape.