Recently, Home Minister approves release of Rs. 6,194 crore state disaster relief funds to 19 States.

Key Points

• The amount includes1,209.60 crore as Central share of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to four States (Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh) for year 2022-23 and Rs.4,984.80 crore to 15 States (Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar etc.)
• The release of funds will help States undertake relief measures during the current Monsoon season.

About State Disaster Response Fund

• The State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) is a fund established by the Indian government to assist states in managing and responding to various types of disasters.
• Constituted under Section 48 (1) (a) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 was constituted based on the recommendations of the 13th Finance Commission.
• Audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) every year assists in providing timely financial assistance for rescue operations, relief distribution, medical care, and other emergency measures.
• It aims to provide financial support for relief, response, and mitigation activities during natural or man-made disasters.
• It is the primary fund available with the State governments for responses to notified disasters to meet expenditure for providing immediate relief.

Contribution

• The Centre contributes 75% of the SDRF allocation for general category States and Union Territories and 90% for special category States and Union Territories (northeastern States Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir).
• The annual Central contribution is released in two equal installments as per the recommendation of the Finance Commission.

Disaster covered and Guidelines

• Disaster (s) covered under SDRF includes cyclone, drought, earthquake, fire, flood, tsunami, hailstorm, landslide, avalanche, cloudburst, pest attack, frost and cold waves.
• The utilization of SDRF funds is governed by specific guidelines issued by the central government.
• States are required to adhere to these guidelines and provide regular reports on fund utilization and progress of relief activities.
• The central government monitors the utilization of funds and provides necessary support and guidance to states when needed.