Govt Approves ₹2,160 Crore for Disaster Recovery, Fire Services in 6 States

The funds will be used for the “Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services”, an ambitious project aligned with the Government's vision of a disaster-resilient India.

In a major push towards strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience across India, a High-Level Committee (HLC) chaired by Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah has sanctioned financial assistance totaling ₹2,160.09 crore. This significant allocation includes disaster recovery and reconstruction support for the flood-hit state of Sikkim, as well as substantial funding for the modernization and expansion of fire services in five key states—Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Kerala.

The High-Level Committee, which includes key cabinet members such as the Finance Minister, Agriculture Minister, and Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, reviewed proposals submitted by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). The projects fall under two distinct funding windows—Recovery and Reconstruction and Preparedness and Capacity Building, in line with the Central Government’s strategic efforts to reduce disaster risk and enhance emergency response systems across the nation.

₹555.70 Crore Approved for Sikkim’s Post-GLOF Reconstruction

One of the most urgent allocations is the approval of ₹555.70 crore for the State of Sikkim. This funding is earmarked for recovery and reconstruction efforts in the aftermath of the devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) that occurred in October 2023. The catastrophic floods affected multiple sectors across the Teesta River basin, damaging infrastructure, displacing communities, and disrupting lives.

The approved amount will be utilized for long-term reconstruction, including rebuilding of essential infrastructure, rehabilitation of affected populations, and implementation of measures to prevent future such disasters. This financial support underlines the Government’s commitment to aiding swift recovery in disaster-prone and ecologically sensitive regions.

₹1,604.39 Crore Sanctioned for Fire Services in Five States

In a parallel move, the committee approved ₹1,604.39 crore under the Preparedness and Capacity Building Funding Window of NDRF for enhancing fire safety infrastructure and emergency response capabilities in five states. The funds will be used for the “Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services”, an ambitious project aligned with the Government's vision of a disaster-resilient India.

Here’s a breakdown of state-wise allocations:

• Maharashtra – ₹614.09 crore

• Bihar – ₹340.90 crore

• Gujarat – ₹339.18 crore

• Kerala – ₹162.25 crore

• Jharkhand – ₹147.97 crore

These funds will go towards procuring modern fire-fighting equipment, building fire stations, training personnel, and strengthening urban and rural fire response systems.

The Union Government has already earmarked a total of ₹5,000 crore for this fire services modernization initiative, with ₹3,373.12 crore previously approved for projects in 20 other states.

National Push for Disaster Preparedness

This latest approval is part of the Ministry of Home Affairs' broader mission, led by Shri Amit Shah, to fulfill Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Disaster Resilient India.” The Government has taken several proactive steps to strengthen the country’s capacity for disaster risk reduction and management.

During the current financial year, the Central Government has made significant disbursements to states for disaster-related funding:

• ₹19,074.80 crore released to 28 states under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF)

• ₹3,229.35 crore disbursed to 16 states under the State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF)

• ₹5,160.76 crore provided to 19 states from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF)

• ₹719.71 crore sanctioned to 8 states under the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF)

These measures reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring that states are financially and operationally equipped to handle emergencies swiftly and effectively.

Strengthening India’s Disaster Risk Reduction Ecosystem

With natural calamities on the rise due to climate change and other environmental factors, India’s disaster management strategy has evolved to focus on preparedness, mitigation, and resilience. The High-Level Committee’s recent decisions signal a continued emphasis on strengthening infrastructure, enhancing response capabilities, and providing timely support to states during times of crisis.

The combined support for Sikkim’s recovery and for fire safety modernization marks a crucial step in India’s journey towards safeguarding lives and livelihoods through robust disaster management systems.