BPAG 171
DISASTER MANAGEMENT
IGNOU BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment July 2024 & Jan 2025
Assignment I
Q 1. Write a note on the National Policy on Disaster Management, 2009
Ans. The National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM), 2009 is a significant step taken by the Government of India to create a safer and disaster-resilient nation.
This policy provides a framework and guideline for handling disasters in a structured and effective manner.
Before this policy, disaster management in India was largely reactive, with focus mainly on rescue and relief after disasters occurred.
However, after several major disasters like the Gujarat earthquake in 2001, the tsunami in 2004, and the Odisha super cyclone in 1999, it became clear that a more organized and preventive approach was urgently needed.
Thus, the Disaster Management Act was passed in 2005, and the NPDM 2009 was formed under the framework of this act.
This policy brought a shift from the traditional relief-centric approach to a more proactive, planned, and holistic strategy for disaster risk reduction and preparedness. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
The NPDM, 2009 outlines the vision to build a safe and disaster-resilient India through a culture of prevention, mitigation, preparedness, and response.
It emphasizes the integration of disaster risk reduction into developmental planning at all levels—central, state, and local.
One of the most important aspects of the policy is that it promotes a multi-hazard approach, meaning it doesn’t focus only on one type of disaster but takes into account natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, cyclones, and droughts, as well as man-made disasters such as industrial accidents, chemical spills, biological hazards, and terrorism.
The idea is to build resilience across sectors and make communities better prepared to face and recover from any disaster.
The policy clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders including government agencies, private sector, civil society, local communities, and international bodies.
At the national level, it establishes the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), headed by the Prime Minister of India.
The NDMA is responsible for laying down policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
At the state level, State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) are formed under the Chief Ministers. At the district level, District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) are led by District Collectors.
This three-tier system ensures that disaster management is organized and implemented across all levels with proper coordination and accountability.
The policy focuses strongly on early warning systems, capacity building, and community-based disaster preparedness.
It encourages the use of modern technologies like satellite communication, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and remote sensing for accurate and timely disaster forecasting and response.
Equally important is the role of training and awareness. The policy recommends regular mock drills, public awareness campaigns, school safety programs, and training of local volunteers and government staff.
It also supports the creation of disaster management plans in every school, hospital, and public building to reduce vulnerabilities.
A key feature of the policy is the mainstreaming of disaster risk reduction (DRR) into development projects. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
This means that all major infrastructure projects, urban planning, housing, and agriculture programs must take disaster risks into consideration.
For instance, buildings in earthquake-prone areas must follow earthquake-resistant design codes. Flood control projects should consider the environmental impact and future climate changes.
By doing this, the policy aims to reduce the long-term risk of disasters and protect lives, property, and livelihoods.
The policy also highlights the importance of sustainable development and environmental protection as essential components of disaster risk reduction.
It acknowledges that deforestation, urbanization, and climate change are increasing the frequency and intensity of disasters.
Therefore, it stresses the need to preserve natural resources, promote afforestation, regulate land use, and adopt eco-friendly construction and farming practices.
Another important dimension of the NPDM, 2009 is response and relief management. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
While the main goal is to reduce risks and prepare communities, the policy also sets guidelines for effective response during and after a disaster.
It includes arrangements for search and rescue operations, evacuation, temporary shelters, food and water supply, medical care, and psychological support for the affected population.
The policy aims to ensure that relief measures are timely, fair, and sensitive to the needs of vulnerable groups like women, children, the elderly, and the disabled.
Further, the policy gives importance to rehabilitation and reconstruction after disasters.
It recommends that rebuilding efforts should not only replace what was lost but also improve the quality of life and reduce future risks.
For example, rebuilding houses destroyed in a cyclone should involve stronger and safer construction. Livelihood support, counseling, and social integration are also considered part of long-term recovery.
The private sector and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) also play an important role as per the policy. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
The government encourages industries to prepare their own disaster management plans and conduct regular safety audits, especially in high-risk areas.
NGOs and community-based organizations are seen as vital partners in spreading awareness, mobilizing resources, and helping in rescue and relief operations.
To support implementation, the policy also calls for the creation of financial mechanisms, including a National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and a National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF).
These funds are meant to ensure that adequate resources are available for immediate response as well as for long-term mitigation projects.
The policy also promotes insurance schemes and risk transfer mechanisms to reduce the financial burden on individuals and governments during disasters.
Q 2. Examine the relationship between disaster and development.
Ans. The relationship between disaster and development is deep and complex. Disasters and development are closely linked, with each having a strong influence on the other. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
On one hand, the way a country or region develops can increase or reduce its vulnerability to disasters. On the other hand, disasters can destroy years of development progress in a matter of minutes.
Understanding this relationship is important for building societies that are not only prosperous but also safe and resilient.
Both development planning and disaster management must go hand in hand to ensure long-term well-being of people, especially in disaster-prone regions.
Disasters can have a devastating impact on development. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, cyclones, and droughts often cause widespread damage to infrastructure, housing, schools, hospitals, roads, and power supply.
When these structures are damaged or destroyed, the essential services they provide are interrupted. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
For example, if a school building collapses in an earthquake, not only are lives lost, but children’s education also suffers, setting back human development in that area.
Similarly, if a hospital is destroyed, access to healthcare is cut off, and diseases may spread.
In addition to physical damage, disasters often result in loss of livelihoods, especially in rural areas where people depend on agriculture or fishing.
A single flood can wipe out a season’s crop, plunging families into poverty and debt.
The economic losses caused by disasters can be so severe that national and local governments are forced to divert money from development projects to relief and rehabilitation efforts. This hampers overall growth.
Development, if not planned properly, can also increase the risk of disasters.
Rapid urbanization, deforestation, poor construction practices, and unplanned settlements in floodplains or seismic zones are examples of development activities that increase vulnerability. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
For instance, when forests are cleared for development projects, the natural balance of the environment is disturbed, leading to landslides, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity.
Similarly, building housing colonies or factories on river banks without proper drainage systems often leads to urban flooding during the rainy season.
These situations show that development without considering environmental and disaster risks can lead to man-made disasters or worsen the effects of natural ones.
At the same time, well-planned development can reduce disaster risks. For example, building earthquake-resistant structures in seismic zones can save countless lives during an earthquake.
Investing in proper drainage systems, rainwater harvesting, and flood control structures can minimize flood damage.
Creating awareness about disaster preparedness, training local communities, and involving them in planning can greatly enhance a society’s ability to respond to and recover from disasters. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Such development not only protects people and property but also helps in faster recovery after a disaster. This is called disaster-resilient development.
The relationship between disaster and development is also visible in the social sphere.
Disasters often expose and worsen existing inequalities in society. Poor people, especially those living in informal settlements or slums, are usually the hardest hit.
They live in unsafe conditions with weak infrastructure, limited access to healthcare, and very little savings or insurance.
When a disaster strikes, they are often left homeless, jobless, and helpless.
Women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities face even greater challenges.
In such cases, disasters slow down or even reverse the progress made in improving quality of life and reducing poverty.
This highlights the need for inclusive and equitable development that leaves no one behind. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Disasters can also create opportunities for better development. After a disaster, there is often a need to rebuild what has been damaged or lost.
This gives a chance to “build back better” by adopting safer and more sustainable methods.
For instance, after the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, many schools and public buildings were rebuilt using earthquake-resistant designs, making them safer than before.
Similarly, after the 2004 tsunami in Tamil Nadu, new coastal regulations were introduced, and houses were built at safer distances from the shore.
These examples show that if recovery and reconstruction are done wisely, they can lead to improved infrastructure and better living conditions.
This requires vision, political will, and participation of the affected communities in decision-making.
Another important link between disaster and development is climate change. As climate change accelerates, the frequency and intensity of natural disasters are increasing. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Rising sea levels, changing rainfall patterns, and more intense cyclones and droughts pose serious risks to development goals.
Without climate-resilient development strategies, future disasters will become more severe and recovery more difficult.
This is why countries around the world are now emphasizing the need to integrate climate change adaptation with disaster risk reduction and development planning.
It is no longer enough to think of disasters as rare events; they are becoming part of everyday life, and development must be prepared to face this reality.
The government plays a crucial role in balancing disaster risk and development. Policies such as the National Policy on Disaster Management (2009) in India stress the importance of integrating disaster risk reduction into development planning.
Urban planning, housing schemes, transportation projects, and agricultural policies must all consider disaster risks. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
This means using scientific tools like hazard mapping, risk assessment, and environmental impact studies before starting any major project.
At the same time, awareness, education, and training must be promoted at all levels, from schools to administrative departments.
International organizations like the United Nations have also recognized the link between disaster and development.
The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030) clearly highlights that disaster risk is a development issue and that disaster resilience is key to achieving sustainable development.
It encourages countries to invest in risk reduction, early warning systems, and community-based preparedness.
Assignment II
Q 3. Enumerate the statutory provisions for mainstreaming disaster risk reduction.
Ans. Mainstreaming Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) into development planning and governance is essential for creating safer and more resilient communities.
In India, several statutory provisions have been put in place to ensure that DRR is not treated as a separate activity but is woven into the fabric of national and state-level development policies. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
These legal measures guide institutions and authorities in making disaster risk reduction a part of everyday planning, decision-making, and implementation processes.
The most important statutory framework for DRR in India is the Disaster Management Act, 2005. This act laid the foundation for a structured and coordinated disaster management system in the country.
It established the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) at the central level, along with State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) and District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) at the state and district levels respectively.
One of the key objectives of this act is to promote a culture of prevention, preparedness, and mitigation by integrating DRR into development planning.
The act mandates the preparation of disaster management plans at all levels, including government departments, which must assess disaster risks before implementing development projects.
The Environment Protection Act, 1986 also plays a significant role in DRR.
It provides powers to the central government to take measures to protect and improve the environment, which includes preparing for and responding to environmental hazards and industrial disasters.
The Factories Act, 1948, and The Factories (Amendment) Act, 1987, after the Bhopal gas tragedy, were modified to improve safety standards in industrial settings and reduce the risk of chemical and industrial disasters.
The Building Bye-laws and National Building Code of India are also critical statutory tools for mainstreaming DRR. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
They provide guidelines for constructing safe and disaster-resilient buildings, especially in areas prone to earthquakes, floods, and cyclones.
Municipalities and urban local bodies are expected to enforce these rules to ensure safety in housing and infrastructure development.
The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification under the Environment (Protection) Act also includes risk assessments and disaster management plans for projects like dams, mining, and chemical industries, which have the potential to cause major disasters if not managed properly.
Q 4. Explain the case study of ‘The Indian Ocean Tsunami, 2004’.
Ans. The Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004 stands as one of the deadliest natural disasters in human history, not just for its enormous loss of life, but also for the way it exposed the lack of preparedness and highlighted the urgent need for disaster risk reduction across nations.
On the morning of December 26, 2004, a massive undersea earthquake, measuring 9.1 to 9.3 on the Richter scale, struck off the west coast of northern Sumatra in Indonesia. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
The violent shaking lasted for nearly 10 minutes, causing the seafloor to uplift and displace a huge volume of water, triggering a series of devastating tsunamis across the Indian Ocean.
Within a short time, gigantic waves—some reaching up to 30 meters in height—swept across the coastlines of Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, the Maldives, and several other countries.
In India, the worst-hit areas included Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Thousands of people who lived near the shore, particularly fishing communities, were caught completely off guard.
More than 10,000 people lost their lives in India alone, while the total death toll across all affected countries was estimated to be over 230,000, with millions displaced and entire villages washed away.
This disaster exposed the lack of an early warning system in the Indian Ocean region.
Unlike the Pacific Ocean, which has a well-established Tsunami Warning System, the Indian Ocean lacked such infrastructure at the time.
There was no timely alert to warn people about the incoming waves, and the concept of a tsunami was unfamiliar to many in the affected regions.
The tragedy led to a global realization about the importance of early warning systems, community awareness, and preparedness programs.
In the aftermath, the Indian government and several international organizations launched massive relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts.
Emergency aid was sent to affected areas in the form of food, water, temporary shelters, and medical support. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
In the long term, new houses were built, coastal regulations were revised, and disaster management systems were strengthened.
India also became part of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (IOTWS), which was established to prevent similar future tragedies.
The 2004 tsunami, despite its horrific impact, became a turning point in disaster management for India and many other countries.
It pushed governments to invest more in risk reduction, environmental protection, and sustainable development.
It taught us that nature’s fury cannot be prevented, but its impact can be reduced through awareness, planning, and resilience.
Q 5. Discuss the types of natural disasters.
Ans. Natural disasters are sudden and extreme events caused by natural forces of the Earth, which result in significant damage to life, property, and the environment.
These disasters are beyond human control, but their impact can be reduced with proper awareness, planning, and disaster preparedness.
Natural disasters are generally classified into different types based on their origin – geological, hydrological, meteorological, and biological.
Each type affects people and landscapes differently, and understanding these types helps in better disaster management and response.
Geological disasters originate from the Earth’s internal processes. The most common examples include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides.
Earthquakes are sudden shaking or vibration of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface.
They can lead to collapse of buildings, road damage, and even tsunamis if they occur under the sea. Volcanic eruptions release lava, ash, and gases that can destroy entire communities and agricultural lands. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Landslides, often triggered by heavy rain or earthquakes, involve the sudden movement of rock and soil down a slope, causing damage to roads, homes, and lives.
Hydrological disasters are caused by the movement and distribution of water. The most common type is flooding.
Floods occur due to excessive rainfall, river overflow, dam failures, or storm surges. Flash floods are particularly dangerous as they occur suddenly and with great force.
Floods destroy homes, crops, infrastructure, and lead to waterborne diseases. Another example is drought, which is a prolonged period of insufficient rainfall.
It leads to water scarcity, crop failure, hunger, and migration of affected people.
Meteorological disasters are related to weather and climate conditions. Cyclones, hurricanes, and typhoons fall into this category.
These intense storms bring strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surges that damage buildings, uproot trees, and disrupt communication and transport.
Heatwaves and cold waves are also meteorological disasters. A heatwave is an extended period of extreme heat that can cause health issues like dehydration and heatstroke, while a cold wave brings extreme cold that can harm vulnerable populations and livestock. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Biological disasters involve the spread of diseases and pests. Though they are not sudden like other disasters, their impact can be equally devastating.
Epidemics and pandemics such as COVID-19, swine flu, and dengue outbreaks are examples. They affect public health systems, economies, and day-to-day life.
Assignment III
Q 6. Write a note on the types of traditional knowledge.
Ans. Traditional knowledge refers to the deep wisdom, practices, and beliefs developed by indigenous and local communities over generations, often passed down through oral traditions.
It is rooted in experience, observation, and close interaction with nature. There are several types of traditional knowledge, each playing a vital role in the daily lives of communities and their relationship with the environment.
One of the most significant types is agricultural knowledge, which includes traditional farming methods, crop rotation, seed preservation, and natural pest control. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Many farmers still rely on ancestral wisdom to understand soil types, rainfall patterns, and planting seasons. This knowledge helps ensure food security and sustainable land use.
Medicinal knowledge is another important type, where communities use local herbs, roots, and plants to treat illnesses.
Traditional healers, known as vaidyas or hakims in India, are respected for their understanding of natural remedies and healing techniques.
Ecological and environmental knowledge includes understanding animal behavior, weather forecasting, and forest resource management. For example, coastal communities often predict storms or fish movement through signs in nature.
Cultural knowledge, which includes rituals, music, stories, and handicrafts, reflects the identity and values of a community. It is expressed through folk songs, dances, clothing, and religious practices.
Finally, architectural knowledge involves traditional building techniques suited to local climate and materials, such as mud houses or bamboo structures that are both eco-friendly and resilient. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Traditional knowledge is a treasure trove of sustainable living practices, and preserving it is essential for biodiversity, culture, and community resilience.
Q 7. Highlight the concept of social and economic rehabilitation.
Ans. Social and economic rehabilitation is a crucial part of disaster recovery and development processes.
It refers to the efforts made to restore the social well-being and economic stability of individuals and communities affected by disasters, conflicts, or other disruptions.
While emergency relief focuses on immediate needs like food, shelter, and medical care, rehabilitation goes a step further to help people rebuild their lives in a sustainable and dignified way.
Social rehabilitation involves rebuilding the social fabric of communities. It includes restoring access to basic services such as education, healthcare, clean water, and sanitation. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
It also focuses on reuniting families, rebuilding trust among community members, addressing trauma through psychological support, and ensuring that vulnerable groups like children, women, the elderly, and people with disabilities are cared for.
Community participation is key during this stage, as people must feel empowered and included in the rebuilding process.
Economic rehabilitation, on the other hand, aims to restore livelihoods and economic activities that were disrupted.
This may involve providing financial assistance, employment opportunities, vocational training, or tools and resources needed for farming, fishing, or small businesses.
Rebuilding infrastructure like roads, markets, and communication systems is also part of economic rehabilitation, as these are essential for commerce and mobility.
In essence, social and economic rehabilitation works together to help affected people not only return to normalcy but also become more resilient.
It supports long-term recovery by restoring dignity, self-reliance, and a sense of hope for the future. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Q 8. Discuss the key components of disaster preparedness framework.
Ans. Disaster preparedness is a vital part of disaster management that focuses on minimizing the impact of disasters before they occur.
It involves planning, organizing, training, and equipping individuals and communities to respond effectively when a disaster strikes.
A well-structured disaster preparedness framework includes several key components, each contributing to reducing vulnerability and enhancing resilience.
One of the most important components is risk assessment and hazard mapping. This involves identifying the types of disasters that are likely to occur in a particular area, understanding their potential impact, and mapping vulnerable zones.
This information forms the foundation for all preparedness activities.
Another key element is early warning systems. These systems collect real-time data from satellites, weather stations, and sensors to predict disasters like cyclones, floods, or earthquakes. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Timely and accurate warnings allow people to evacuate or take protective measures, saving lives and reducing damage.
Community awareness and education are also crucial. People must be informed about the risks they face and the actions they can take during emergencies.
Schools, local groups, and media can play a big role in spreading knowledge through drills, workshops, and campaigns.
Training and capacity building help prepare both individuals and institutions. Emergency personnel, volunteers, and community members need to be trained in evacuation procedures, first aid, search and rescue, and other life-saving skills.
Preparedness planning is another core component. This includes making disaster management plans at various levels—national, state, district, and local.
These plans outline roles, responsibilities, resources, and procedures to be followed during a disaster.
Finally, resource management and logistics ensure that essential supplies like food, water, medical aid, and shelter are readily available and can be distributed efficiently during an emergency.
Stockpiling, creating emergency shelters, and establishing communication networks are all part of this process.
Q 9. Highlight the principles of community based disaster management.
Ans. Community-Based Disaster Management (CBDM) is an approach that places communities at the center of disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
It recognizes that local people are often the first responders in any emergency and that they possess valuable knowledge about the risks and resources in their environment. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
CBDM empowers communities to take responsibility for their own safety and resilience. Here are the key principles that guide this approach:
Participation and Inclusiveness: The most fundamental principle of CBDM is active participation of community members, including women, children, elderly, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.
Everyone’s voice matters, and collective decision-making strengthens community ownership.
Local Knowledge and Resources: CBDM emphasizes the use of traditional knowledge, local skills, and resources in disaster planning and risk reduction. Communities often have unique insights into local hazards, safe routes, weather patterns, and early warning signs.
Capacity Building: This principle focuses on training and educating local people in disaster preparedness, first aid, search and rescue, and emergency response.
Building skills and confidence enables communities to act quickly and effectively when a disaster strikes. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Risk Reduction Focus: CBDM prioritizes prevention and mitigation rather than just relief. Efforts are made to identify risks, reduce vulnerabilities, and strengthen infrastructure to minimize the impact of future disasters.
Sustainability and Self-Reliance: The approach aims to make communities self-reliant in the long run by encouraging sustainable practices, resource management, and local leadership in disaster planning.
Q 10. What do you mean by epidemics?
Ans. An epidemic refers to the sudden outbreak and rapid spread of a disease within a specific population, community, or region, over a short period of time.
It usually affects a large number of people more than what is normally expected in that area. Epidemics can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other infectious agents and are often spread through direct contact, water, air, food, or insects.
For example, if a flu virus spreads quickly in a city and infects many people at once, it may be called an epidemic. Other common examples include outbreaks of dengue, cholera, or swine flu in certain regions.
Epidemics can cause panic, put pressure on healthcare systems, and disrupt daily life.
To control epidemics, it is important to identify the source of infection, isolate affected individuals if necessary, raise public awareness, and provide timely medical treatment. BPAG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Good hygiene, vaccination, and surveillance play a major role in preventing and managing such outbreaks.
IGNOU BSOG 173 Free Solved Assignment 2024