In the mid-1990s and the subsequent decade, global discourse on Disaster Response and Preparedness intensified, spurred by significant events such as the Yokohama Strategy Plan (1994) and the Hyogo Framework for action (2005), Both adopted by the United Nations. This period coincided with a string of severe natural calamities in India including the Orissa Super Cyclone (1999), Gujarat Earthquake (2001), and Indian Ocean Tsunami (2004). These events underscored the critical need for a comprehensive Disaster Management Plan. Responding to this, the Disaster Management Act was enacted on December 26, 2005, leading to the establishment of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) tasked with formulating policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management.
A pivotal aspect of the Disaster Management Act was the provision for the formation of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), aimed at specialized response to natural and man-made disasters. Initially established in 2006 with 8 Battalions, the NDRF has now expanded to 16 Battalions, each comprising 1149 personnel. Notably the force underwent a significant transformation from being initially deployed for routine law and order duties to becoming a dedicated force for disaster response following a directive highlighted in a meeting between the NDMA and the Prime Minister on October, 25, 2007. This culminated in the notification of NDRF Rules on February 14, 2008, placing the force under the unified command of the DG NDRF.
The strategic deployment of NDRF resources, characterized by “proactive availability” and “pre-positioning” during imminent disaster situations, has proven instrumental in mitigating damages caused by natural calamities across the country. One of the earliest tests for the NDRF was the Kosi floods in 2008, Where swift action led to the rescue of over 1,00,000 affected individuals, earning accolades from local authorities.
Since its inception, the NDRF has continually demonstrated expertise and compassion in handling various disaster scenarios, earning the trust and gratitude of millions. Notable instances include the successful rescue operations during the Bellary building collapse (2010), Jalandhar factory collapse (2012), and response to the triple disaster in Japan (2011), showcasing the force’s commitment to saving lives and aiding communities in distress.
The force faced its first urban flooding challenge on a massive scale during the devastating floods in Jammu and Kashmir in September 2014. Despite daunting conditions, including non-functional communication and electricity supply, the NDRF’s Timely intervention saved thousands of lives and provided essential relief to affected people. Similar exemplary responses were delivered during cyclone Hud-Hud in October 2014 and the earthquake in Nepal in April 2015, where the NDRF’s Rapid deployment and effective rescue operations played a vital role.
Furthermore, the NDRF’s expertise extends beyond traditional rescue operations to address Chemical, Biological, Radiological & Nuclear (CBRN) challenges, as demonstrated during the retrieval of Cobalt-60 radiological material at Mayapuri, Delhi, in April 2010.
In 2023, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) continued its unwavering commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in response to several significant events.
After a 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Turkiye and North-West Syria on 06.02.2023, NDRF immediately deployed 3 teams for Rescue and relief efforts. Operating from 07.02.2023 to 18.02.2023, NDRF rescued 2 survivors, recovered 85 fatalities, and offered medical aid to the affected community.
Following a train accident in Bahanaga, Balasore, Orrisa on 02.06.2023, involving 3 trains and 17 derailed coaches, NDRF acted swiftly, deploying its 9 teams. NDRF, collaborating with other local agencies, rescued 44 survivors and retrieved 121 deceased from the site between 02.06.2023 to 04.06.2023.
After a tunnel collapse in Silkyara village, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand on 12.11.2023, NDRF mobilized its 02 teams. Teaming up with NHIDCL, RITES, Air Force and other local agencies, NDRF conducted SAR operations from 12.11.2023 to 01.12.2023. After all out efforts of all agencies, 41 trapped workers were rescued from the tunnel.
These incidents exemplify the NDRF’s readiness and capability to respond effectively to diverse disaster scenarios, saving lives and providing critical assistance to affected communities.
Today, the NDRF stands as a distinguished and dependable force within India, under the able leadership of the Director General, NDRF. With its unwavering commitment to disaster response and preparedness, the force continues to serve as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
ORGANISATION
Presently, the NDRF comprises 16 Battalions drawn from the CAPF, viz BSF, CISF, CRPF, ITBP, SSB and Assam Rifles. Each battalion is composed of 18 self-sufficient specialized search and rescue teams, consisting of 47 members each, encompassing structural engineers, technicians, electricians, canine units, and medical/paramedic personnel. With a total strength of 1,149 personnel battalion. All 16 units are proficiently equipped and trained to handle any type of natural and manmade disasters.
Map showing NDRF Bns locations and their respective area of responsibility
