Disaster Management Laws in India: Past, Present, and Future Directions

Disaster management in India has significantly evolved over the years in response to the increasing frequency and severity of natural and man-made disasters. This paper examines the historical evolution of India’s legal framework for disaster management, critically assessing its effectiveness and providing recommendations for future legal and policy reforms. The study utilises a qualitative historical analysis to examine key legal documents, statutes, and regulations, tracing the evolution from colonial-era, relief-based laws to the present, more comprehensive risk-reduction models. The findings highlight the transition from a reactive, relief-focused approach to a more proactive, comprehensive risk-reduction model that aligns more closely with international best practices. The paper identifies the challenges faced by current legal frameworks, particularly in integrating advanced technologies and involving local governance in disaster management. Moreover, it emphasises the incorporation of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) into disaster management laws to enhance preparedness, response, and long-term recovery efforts. By focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the study advocates for enhancing the effectiveness of disaster management strategies. The paper concludes with recommendations for future reforms to strengthen India’s legal infrastructure and integrate emerging technologies, thereby enhancing disaster resilience nationwide.