Centre allows Kerala to use SDRF funds for Wayanad

Centre allows Kerala to use SDRF funds for Wayanad

Sub : Polity

Sec: Msc

Context: Centre permitted Kerala’s State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to use 120 crores which had been set apart for payment to defence department towards airlifting charges provided by centre, after the SDRF sought additional assistance specifically for Wayanad, as existing funds are earmarked for prior commitments and statewide disaster management activities.

About SDRF

The SDRF is constituted under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, which provides the legal framework for disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response.

Article 282 of the Indian Constitution allows both the Union and State governments to make grants for public purposes, including disaster management.

Nodal Authority:

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) at the Central level oversees disaster management, while State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) manage state-level operations.

Financial Framework

Funding Mechanism:

• The SDRF is primarily funded by the Central Government, with a share contributed by the respective State Governments.
• For general-category states, the central share is 75%, and for special-category states (e.g., Northeastern states, Himalayan states), it is 90%.
• In the case of severe disasters, the Central Government provides additional financial assistance from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF)

Annual Allocation:

• The Centre allocates funds based on the recommendations of the Finance Commission, taking into account factors like past disasters, vulnerability, and state performance in disaster response.

Usage and Release of Funds:

• The SDRF can be utilized for disaster relief, including expenses related to rescue operations, immediate relief, and restoration activities.