Thu Dec 12 16:30:30 UTC 2024: ## Lok Sabha Passes Disaster Management Amendment Bill Amidst Opposition Concerns

**New Delhi, December 12, 2024** – The Lok Sabha passed the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Thursday, aiming to bolster India’s disaster response capabilities. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, asserted the Bill addresses shortcomings in the 2005 Act and improves coordination among stakeholders. He emphasized the Bill’s goal of better national preparedness for disasters.

However, the Opposition voiced concerns. Members from the Trinamool Congress and Congress criticized the Bill for creating excessive organizations and lacking focus on climate change. They also pointed to the removal of “compensation” and its replacement with “relief,” suggesting a shift towards centralization and a lack of emphasis on the role of elected officials. Specific criticism included the alleged inadequacy of the government’s pandemic response and the bill’s omission of a comprehensive holistic approach to disaster management. A BJP member countered by labeling daily parliamentary disruptions as a “man-made disaster.” The Bill passed by voice vote despite the opposition’s amendments being rejected.

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