Home Minister Amit Shah rejected allegations of discrimination in disaster management, said- India becomes global strength

Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday dismissed the opposition’s allegations of discrimination in disaster management in the Rajya Sabha. He said that in the last 10 years, India has emerged as a force in disaster management not only national but also regional and globally.

Shah was responding to the discussion on the Disaster Management Amendment Bill. He clarified that the purpose of this bill is not to centralize power, but to ensure preparations and participation of all before disaster.

He said-
“This bill will not be limited to reacting only after disaster, but will also insist on preparing in advance, adopting innovative solutions and increasing the participation of the general public.”

Bill approved in Rajya Sabha

Following the reply of the Home Minister, the Upper House approved this bill with government amendments.

• The amendment proposals presented by the opposition members were rejected.

• Shah said that 40 countries have accepted the 10-point agenda of ‘Disaster Risk Reduction’ presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

• He said that the bill provides for active participation of not only state governments but also common people.

Shah said-
“The progress we have made in the field of disaster management in the last 10 years has been accepted by the whole world. India has now emerged as a global force, not just a national.”

‘Disaster direct relation with climate change’

Amit Shah said that there was a direct connection between disaster and climate change.

• He said that global warming and climate change are increasing the intensity and frequency of disasters.

• He linked this issue with ancient Indian philosophy and said that there is mention of protecting the earth and space in the Vedas.

• He also mentioned the Harappan civilization and said that India has been taking measures since ancient times to protect against natural disasters.

‘Federal structure will not be damaged’

The opposition accused the central government of discrimination in disaster aid with non-BJP ruled states.

• Responding to this, Shah said that “there is no possibility of damaging the federal structure.”

• He informed that a scientific system has been created by the Finance Commission, under which all the states are given equally assistance.