Describe various measures taken in India for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) before and after signing the ‘Sendai Framework for DRR (2015–2030).’ How is this framework different from the ‘Hyogo Framework for Action, 2005’?

Introduction: Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) means cutting the chances and the damage of disasters by acting on the hazard, exposure and vulnerability. The Sendai Framework (2015–30) succeeded the Hyogo Framework for Action (2005–15) as the global blueprint, and India is a signatory to both.

Measures before Sendai: India moved from relief to risk management with the Disaster Management Act, 2005, creating a three-tier structure of NDMA, SDMAs and DDMAs. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was raised as a dedicated multi-hazard force, the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) was set up for training and research, and a National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project was begun for coastal states.

Measures after Sendai:

• The National Disaster Management Plan, 2016 (revised 2019) was among the world's first to be aligned with Sendai's four priorities and seven targets.
• India launched the global Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) in 2019.
• A Prime Minister's 10-point agenda on DRR, risk-financing through SDRF/NDRF, and Finance Commission mitigation funds followed.

Sendai vs Hyogo: Hyogo aimed to reduce disaster losses; Sendai targets the risk itself — a shift from reactive to preventive. Sendai adds seven measurable global targets and 38 indicators, widens scope to natural, man-made, technological and biological hazards, places the primary responsibility on the State while engaging all of society, and stresses “Build Back Better” in recovery.

Conclusion: India's policy architecture is well-aligned with Sendai; the remaining task is sharpening district and ward-level risk governance and risk-informed investment so prevention reaches the most exposed communities.