College of Public Administration and Disaster Management

NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Cabanatuan City

INDIA’S CRISES: NEXUS OF POVERTY, INEQUALITY,

AND DISASTERS

A Case Analysis
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements
for Global Disaster Management

by:

PALOMO, MA. LOURDES J.

April 2024
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CASE ANALYSIS: POVERTY, INEQUALITY, AND FLOOD IN INDIA

Author/s and Year of Publication:

(ADRC, 2022), (Booster, 2023), (Dhoot, 2024), (Frege, Bradshaw, Dijkzeult, 2023),
(NDMA, n.d), (NDMA, 2019), (NPDM, n.d), (UNDP, 2012), (Tiwari, 2019)

INTRODUCTION:
India alongside with other disaster-prone and developing countries like
Philippines and Indonesia are at highest risk worldwide and are most likely to
experience dreadful disasters throughout the year. According to the (World Risk
Report, 2023), India is in third place with a 41.52 World Risk Index or (WRI of
41.52) out of the disaster-prone countries. The report explained the role of
interrelationship between crises, marginalized groups, and the diverse structure of
societies. It further discussed that while disasters and other extreme events affects
everyone without exemption, individuals who belong to marginalized areas or groups,
such as women, elders, persons with disabilities, or members of the queer community,
typically tend to experience intense and severe negative outcomes.
Considering the geographical location being a country in South Asia and the
seventh (7th) largest country in the world, it is hard to estimate numbers of affected
communities in the country. Additional to its unique position in Asian continent and
the Indian Ocean. Moreover, India’s climate being “Tropical Monsoon”, which makes
India experience hot summers and moderately cold winters. Wherein the Himalayas,
winters are extremely cold while summers are moderately hot. Putting the often
changing climate condition into consideration, it is no doubt that India is a country
that is prone to various disasters that includes: Flooding, Tropical cyclones,
Earthquakes, Avalanches, Fire, Drought, landslides, and many more.

Adding to the fact that India is still a developing country, regardless of its
seemingly high GDP rate of 7.3% (Dhoot, 2024), there are still difficulties in the other
parts of the country. Moreover, India is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, losing
about two (2%) percent of the GDP on an average to disasters. As the economic value
grows higher, the chances that those in the vulnerable areas or marginalized areas are
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going to be harder to cope and are most likely to experience the consequences of
disasters. Considering that one of the fundamental characteristics of India as a
developing economy is that it is majorly primary producing. This particularly means that
a majority of the population is engaged with agriculture (around 52 percent). The reason
behind the ironic difference is that with the continuous economic growth is that
agriculture is a low income earning sector. Thus, productivity per person engaged in
agriculture is very low. There has been difficulties in proper coping in face of
numerous hazards concerning its vulnerability alongside exposure that result in
disasters. Furthermore, floods have also occurred in areas which weren’t considered
flood prone areas before. This change in the lands that is also due to the urbanization
of certain areas can be attributed to many reasons including a steep increase in
population, rapid urbanization growing developmental and economic activities in
flood plains coupled with global warming.

This analysis aims to give light concerning the interconnection of natural disaster
like flood to one of the most common social issues which is poverty alongside
inequality. Analyzing the various disaster methods, practices, and the disaster
management itself of India will also provide insights for other concerning disaster-prone
and developing countries around the world. This study will also provide
recommendations for the specific issues that will be tackled further into the study.

BODY (Main Discussion):

Due to several disasters that India faces in account of its geographical position
and changing climate adding to the fact that Asia Pacific Region faces over 60% of
the world's natural disasters, it is rare to not experience drought, typhoons,
earthquakes, and flooding in some parts of the country. Moreover, flooding is a
common occurrence in Eastern India, as the Himalayan rivers submerge a significant
portion of their catchment areas, uprooting people and causing livelihood disruptions
as well as infrastructure damage. The Himalayan mountain ranges continue to be a
source of concern regarding of its extreme susceptibility to avalanches, landslides,
and earthquakes.
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As one of the largest country globally, there is a big impact especially on the
marginalized and unseen parts or areas of India that is in need of attention. Poverty
has always been there and is unfortunately becoming more prevalent, due to the
adversities in life that is most commonly financially. Even though India is known to
be one of the fastest growing economies of the world, the continuous rise of prices or
inflation, the issues of bribery and corruption can be seen everywhere not only in
India but the world. These issues are one of the roost causes of why inequality and
poverty aren’t able to slow down its pace and effects on people, providing higher
vulnerabilities around the globe. As it continuous to play out that way which
definitely affects economy of central, state, and local government agencies that leads
to inaccuracy and application of certain laws and policies regarding disaster
management. Hence, the interconnection of poverty and disasters that results to
furthermore inequality of the citizens cannot be disregarded.
As flood alongside with other natural hazards in India becomes more
prominent that ever, there were a few policies, laws, practices, and methods that were
created to lessen the impacts and to build resilience over time which will be discussed
further into the study. However, the questions still remains if it is being properly and
adequately applied throughout the country.

Disaster Management Policies and Laws in India:

 Disaster Risk Management Act of 2005

The creation of Disaster Risk Management Act of 2005 was way back in
December 23, 2005 wherein the Government of India (GoI) took a defining step by
enacting the law. The act was created to effectively manage the disasters by properly
passing of information or institutional and coordination mechanisms from national,
state, and district levels. In the said act the National Disaster Management Authority
(NDMA), was also created and thus, acts as an advisory committee to National
Authority that sets out and approves policies and other plans regarding disaster
management by different departments, ensuring timely and effective disaster
response.
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In the Disaster Risk Management Act of 2005 there also includes the chain of
command which states that National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) will
be headed by the Prime Minister, State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs)
headed by the Chief Ministers, and District Disaster Management Authorities
(DDMAs) headed by the Collector or District Magistrate or Deputy Commissioner as
the case may be, to spearhead and adopt a holistic and integrated approach to DM
(NPDM, n.d).

 National Policy on Disaster Management of 2009

One of the aims of this policy focuses on rather being response-eccentric, it provides
a broader perspective with the use of proper mitigation-prevention plans. To be able to
achieve this vision into plans, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
will follow and implement these steps to achieve and execute precisely and adequately
with the approach of involving number of initiatives with the help of other institutions
and organizations from national, state, up to local levels.

 National Disaster Management Plan 2019

The National Disaster Management Plan of 2019 was a revised version of the
National Disaster Management Plan of 2016, which then aims to provide a more
comprehensive and enhanced plan that sets targets and achievements under the Sendai
Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030), Sustainable Development Goals
(SDG), and the Paris Agreement (COP 21). The Plan was thus became broader
specifically in terms of international relations and cooperation. Moreover, it states that it
was revised to become more inclusive by understanding and taking the marginalized
groups and areas into consideration.

Coping strategies of India: (Overall disasters)

Aside from the strategies and policies India created and implemented, there
are other generalized practices or techniques for certain disasters which includes
analyzing the vulnerabilities, to disaster management cycle, hazard and flood maps.
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Figure 1. (India’s Vulnerability Profile)

To properly and adequately execute the policies and laws above, India follows
various profiling of the possible root of disasters. The figure above shows the
vulnerability profile. Analyzing the vulnerability profile of India from (Booster, 2023),
there are numerous factors to be considered in face with hazard or the disaster itself. As
India is prone to disasters whether it is natural or man-made, its effects varies from
political, environmental, physiological, physical,economic, and social aspects.
Political by means of are the policies, laws, and plans are sufficient enough to properly
mitigate, respond, and rehabilitate affected areas. Thus, in the context of human
vulnerability to disasters, the economical and social weaker segments of the
population are the ones that are most seriously affected. Considering the unseen areas
of the country, there are a lot of unspoken truth behind those who are severely
affected by disaster and inadequate planning.
Overall, it acts as a guide to properly identify and assess the vulnerability of the said
country hence, further helps the various coping mechanisms India has.
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Figure 2. (India’s Disaster Management Cycle)

Likewise with the other countries Disaster Management Cycle, India has its own
strategies from (NDMP, n.d) that aims to lessen the said consequences of disasters
especially to those who experience poverty and inequality.
The Disaster Management Cycle includes Mitigation, Preparation, Response,
and Recovery, alongside with its sub steps at the outer circle that refers to Capacity
Building, Pre-impact, Emergency, Restoration, and Reconstruction. The Mitigation and
Preparation step refers to proper planning and formulation of important variables to
lessen the impacts of disaster. This includes creation of hazard maps, flood maps,
evacuation plans, or more specific like elevated houses for flooding, earthquake resistant
homes and more. The Response pertains to search and rescue teams, evacuation areas
that are easily accessible and safe, health care assistance, and continuous relay of
information. Lastly, the Recovery pertains to finally getting back to once before and
better by means of stronger and adequate plans, and response steps.
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RESEARCH FINDINGS:

Figure 3. (India’s
Flood Hazard Map)

Flood being the number one disaster in the country, India Flood Hazard Map
was created to identify areas that are in the danger zone areas or are most likely to be
affected by floods. The image also shows the overall areas in India including the
rivers and boundaries within the area, as well as its neighboring countries. It can also
be notice how those who lives in coastal areas are most likely to be affected by means
of sudden disaster like typhoons and floods and even flash floods and landslides.

Coping strategies of India: (Flood)

There are various strategies and policies that were created in hopes of
overcoming this type of disaster more efficiently and effectively.
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According to (NDMP, 2019), India has sub-thematic areas of DRR that includes:
(1) observation networks, information systems, monitoring research, and forecasting and
early warnings. This is done to properly mitigate the upcoming typhoons or tropical
cyclones and thus, be ready and prepared for the possible flood. (2) Focuses on
international relations and studying each of the state’s strategies for flood preparedness
especially neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan and China. (3) Improving the dams
by means of observing its flows. (4) Preparation of flood hazard maps, inspecting
households, making sure of the shelters and assistance in face of disaster. (5) Provide
studies, documents, and research to be able to come up with new and proper strategies,
(6) Provide adequate communication tools and equipment for a smooth information
dissemination. (7) Ensure flood-resistant areas and infrastructures are in place as well as
proper alignment and design (8) Proper guidance and support for each concerning areas.

Figure 4. (Kashmir Flood, 2014) Figure 5. (Uttarakhand Flash Flood,

2013)

Aside from the world known Kashmir flood in 2014 that causes deaths and loss
of livelihood, another example of one of the devastating disastrous event caused by
flooding is Uttarakhand Flash Floods in 2013. The flooding resulted into catastrophic
loss in aspects of economic and social for both of the flood from 2013 to 2014. With
the Kashmir flood, one of the issues was stated as the “slow response” of the
government while the citizens are up to their balconies and the roof of their homes in
fear (Sharma et al., 2014). Lack of coordination and proper information dissemination
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was caused and unfortunately led to deaths. It was also reported that evacuees were on
their own, with complaints for the government that was no where to be seen.
On the other hand with the Uttarakhand flood in 2013, it was stated in the
report of (Tiwari, 2019), that while the military was able to evacuate more
than 100,000 people trapped in landslides, an estimated 4,094 were killed and over
5,700 were missing (and eventually presumed dead). Concluding with the same
situation and same outcomes, it was stated that one of the issues due to slow response
was once again, lack of proper forecast and information dissemination.

CONCLUSION:
Based on the findings in the main discussion that is thoroughly discussed, one of
the most important things to consider is the interconnection of each variables. Even
though disasters do not choose their victims, the most affected by the dreadful
consequences by it is the marginalized areas or groups that experience both poverty and
inequality due to varying factors. It is indeed important to understand these concerning
variables and how is it able to affect each other. Even though India is one of the fastest
growing economy, the issue of inequality is more noticeable than ever. Considering that
India is a big country, there are some areas that are unseen and are not given enough
attention and assistance in face with disasters especially flood. The continuous slow
response combined with unplanned and substandard infrastructure alongside with poor
implementation of planning, relief and rehabilitation measures increases the human,
physical and economic losses sustained during and after a disaster. Moreover, it does
not matter how detailed or inclusive the policies and laws are, it is in the matter of
implementation and execution of those. It is devastating to think that even these types
of disasters keep happening, the response to it is still same that it makes people
wonder if there is a room for improvement somewhere. The hope of people for a
change is decreasing each time these types of events happens. Although it is
unfortunate, one must always stand and voice out for people especially those who
does not have the privilege to do so. To lessen the inequality that marginalized groups
experience and to be heard, it is important for the government to assess and assist
them. It is always a two-way communication and understanding as residents needs to
be educated and listen to the proper protocols same to the government and concerning
agencies to hear the needs of the people to avoid further issues.
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RECOMMENDATIONS:
 Proper and adequate planning that is inclusive and should focus more on the
marginalized areas/groups and unseen parts of the countries identifying
consequences to lessen the inequality and further issues.
 Conducting assessments regularly to some areas in the country that are not able to
acquire adequate assistance from other concerning agencies and departments. This
may also include assessment to each households if it is able to withstand disasters
and such as well as providing right assistance.
 Immediate evacuation and relief efforts prioritizing safety and well-being of
affected populations by means of proper evacuation plans.
 Emergency relief goods, supplies, shelter, and medical assistance, must be always
available specially to those who have been severely affected.
 Programs and seminars in terms of community resilience and awareness
pertaining to disasters. These type of programs and seminars may also be
applicable to recovery and rehabilitation step as these includes financial and
psychological support, as well as job training.
 Equip individuals with practical skills for disaster preparedness, response, and
recovery. This includes first aid training, evacuation procedures, and basic
survival skills.
 Strengthening and expanding early warning systems This involves investing in
monitoring technologies and community education programs to ensure a timely
response to potential threats.
 International collaboration should be one of the priorities as it is important to
coordinate with other countries to strengthen the steps and plans of each state and
to be able to receive and give assistance to one another.
 Local government units should enhance and follow the policies and laws properly
such as emergency planning by incorporating community feedback, conducting
regular drills, and updating plans based on evolving risk assessments.
 Invest in durable equipment, supplies, as well as infrastructures that are able to
withstand disasters. Elevated households and infrastructures as example.
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REFERENCES:

ADRC. (2022). Country Report - INDIA. Retrieved from:

https://www.adrc.asia/countryreport/IND/2022/India_CR_FY2022.pdf
Booster, M. (2023). Vulnerability. Retrieved from: https://theiashub.com/free-
resources/mains-marks-booster/vulnerability

Dhoot, V. (2024). India’s real GDP growth for 2023-24. Retrieved from:
https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/economy-to-grow-by-73-in-current-
fiscal-against-72-expansion-in-fy23/article67709699.ece

Frege, I., Bradshaw, S., Dijkzeult, D. (2023). World Risk Report: Focus: Diversity.
Retrieved from: https://www.preventionweb.net/publication/world-risk-report-2023-
focus-diversity
NDMA. Floods. Retrieved from: https://ndma.gov.in/Natural-Hazards/Floods
NDMA. (2019). Retrieved from: https://ndma.gov.in/sites/default/files/PDF/ndmp-
2019.pdf
NPDM. National Policy on Disaster Management. Retrieved from:
https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/2022-08/NPDM-101209%5B1%5D.pdf
UNDP. (2012). Disaster Management in India. Retrieved from:
https://www.undp.org/india/publications/disaster-management-india-0
Tiwari, R. (2019). Six Floods That Devastated India. Retrieved from:
https://weather.com/en-IN/india/monsoon/news/2019-07-09-floods-rainfall-rains-
flash-flooding-waterlogging-gutters-stagnant