Do Disaster Victims Have the First Right on the State's Treasury? - Nitish Kumar
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Synopsis
In a recent high-level meeting, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar stressed the importance of disaster preparedness as the monsoon season approaches. He emphasized that disaster victims deserve priority access to state funds, highlighting his administration's strides in improving disaster management since 2005.
Key Takeaways
- Chief Minister Nitish Kumar emphasizes disaster victims' rights to state funds.
- Preparedness for floods and droughts is prioritized ahead of the monsoon.
- Ex-gratia payments for affected families have increased to Rs 7,000.
- Government aims for timely repair of infrastructure.
- Continuous monitoring by the Disaster Management Department is essential.
Patna, May 20 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar, convened a crucial high-level meeting on Tuesday to assess the state's readiness for possible flood and drought scenarios as the monsoon season approaches.
Reiterating the government's dedication to relief and rehabilitation, he declared, “Disaster victims possess the foremost claim on the state treasury.”
During the discussions, Nitish Kumar urged officials from all departments to stay vigilant and proactive.
He pointed out that since his administration began in November 2005, there have been significant improvements in disaster management, contrasting sharply with the unpreparedness of earlier times.
He recalled past significant disasters, mentioning the catastrophic 2007 flood that affected over 2.5 crore individuals across 22 districts, and the 2008 Kosi tragedy, impacting 34 lakh residents in Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, Purnea, and Araria districts.
Nitish Kumar explained that extensive relief initiatives were implemented during these crises, including securing financial assistance from the World Bank for rehabilitation efforts.
He highlighted that ex-gratia payments for families affected by floods were first introduced in 2016 at Rs 6,000 per family, later raised to Rs 7,000 in 2023.
For fatalities caused by natural disasters, the government provides Rs 4 lakh in compensation to the deceased's family.
The Chief Minister instructed officials to finalize flood and drought preparedness by the end of May and ensure prompt repairs of damaged roads and fortification of river embankments.
He also emphasized the need for sufficient medical facilities, clean drinking water, and food supplies in at-risk areas.
Additionally, he urged authorities to make preemptive arrangements to support farmers suffering from crop losses due to floods or droughts, conduct field assessments by District Magistrates, engage with local communities to address issues, and continuously oversee all disaster-related preparations through the Disaster Management Department.
Nitish Kumar further stressed the significance of aerial surveys and direct assessments during disasters to gauge ground realities and ensure rapid responses.
“Given the evolving climate patterns, we must remain alert. If each official diligently fulfills their duties, we can greatly alleviate the hardships of the people during any disaster,” he concluded.
Point of View
I believe that the proactive approach taken by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in addressing disaster preparedness reflects a vital responsibility of governance. Ensuring that victims of natural calamities are prioritized in state funding is not just a moral obligation but a necessary strategy for effective disaster management. This commitment to relief and rehabilitation is commendable and must be upheld across all regions in the country.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is Bihar taking for disaster preparedness?
Bihar is enhancing its disaster management strategies, focusing on timely repairs of infrastructure and ensuring adequate medical and food supplies for affected areas.
How much compensation do flood victims receive?
Flood-affected families receive Rs 7,000 as ex-gratia, while the next of kin of deceased individuals receive Rs 4 lakh.
When is the flood and drought preparedness deadline?
The Chief Minister has directed that all preparedness efforts should be completed by the end of May.
What historical disasters did Nitish Kumar reference?
He referred to the devastating 2007 flood and the 2008 Kosi tragedy, which significantly impacted the state.
What role does the Disaster Management Department play?
The department is responsible for overseeing all disaster-related arrangements and ensuring effective responses during calamities.
