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Key Points

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has emphasized a robust disaster management approach focusing on victim support and state readiness. His government has significantly improved disaster response mechanisms since 2005, introducing financial aid and compensation schemes. The Chief Minister stressed the importance of proactive planning, particularly in light of changing climate patterns. Kumar's strategy involves comprehensive preparedness, including medical facilities, financial support, and direct engagement with affected communities.

Key Points: Nitish Kumar Pledges First Rights for Disaster Victims

  • Comprehensive flood and drought preparedness plan initiated
  • Ex-gratia grants increased to Rs 7,000 per affected family
  • Proactive approach to disaster management since 2005
  • Detailed instructions issued to all state departments
2 min read

Disaster victims have the first right on state's treasury: Nitish Kumar

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar outlines comprehensive disaster management strategy, prioritizing victim relief and state-wide preparedness ahead of monsoon season

"Disaster victims have the first right on the state treasury - Nitish Kumar"

Patna, May 20

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting to review the state's preparedness for potential flood and drought situations ahead of the monsoon season.

Emphasising the government's commitment to relief and rehabilitation, the Chief Minister said, "Disaster victims have the first right on the state treasury."

During the meeting, Nitish Kumar directed officials across all departments to remain fully alert and proactive.

He highlighted that since the formation of his government in November 2005, significant strides have been made in disaster management, contrasting the situation with the lack of preparedness seen prior to that.

Recalling past major calamities, he cited the 2007 flood, which impacted over 2.5 crore people across 22 districts, and the 2008 Kosi tragedy, which affected 34 lakh people in Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, Purnea, and Araria districts.

He said large-scale relief efforts were carried out during these disasters, including taking financial aid from the World Bank to support rehabilitation.

Nitish Kumar noted that ex-gratia grants for flood-affected families were introduced in 2016 with a provision of Rs 6,000 per family, which was increased to Rs 7,000 in 2023.

In cases of death due to natural calamities, the government provides Rs 4 lakh compensation to the next of kin.

The Chief Minister issued clear instructions to complete flood and drought preparedness by the end of May and ensure the timely repair of damaged roads and the strengthening of river embankments.

He directed officials to make adequate medical facilities, clean drinking water, and food supplies in the affected areas.

He also said that the authority should make advance arrangements to assist farmers facing crop loss due to flood or drought, conduct on-ground assessments by District Magistrates, engage directly with local residents to solve issues, and continuously monitor all disaster-related arrangements through the Disaster Management Department.

He also emphasised the importance of aerial surveys and direct visits during disasters to assess ground realities and ensure swift responses.

"In the wake of changing climate patterns, we must remain vigilant. If every official fulfils their responsibility with dedication, we can significantly ease the suffering of the people during any disaster," he concluded.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Good to see Bihar preparing in advance for monsoons. After seeing what happened in Kerala last year, every state should take notes. But ₹7,000 per family is too little - with inflation, this should be at least ₹10,000. Hope the government reviews this.
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Priya M.
Nitish Kumar has always been proactive about disaster management. Remember how efficiently Bihar handled the Kosi crisis compared to earlier governments. But implementation at ground level is key - hope officials don't just make plans on paper 🙏
A
Amit S.
"First right on state treasury" sounds good, but where is the transparency? We need real-time tracking of relief funds like Gujarat has. Also, why no mention of urban flooding? Patna drowns every monsoon while villages get all attention.
S
Sunita T.
As someone who lost home in 2007 floods, I appreciate the preparedness. But compensation reaches very late - sometimes after 2-3 years! Government should setup special fast-track courts to handle relief fund distribution. Jai Bihar!
V
Vikram J.
Why only reactive measures? Should invest in long-term solutions like Netherlands-style flood control systems. We take World Bank loans for relief but not prevention. Climate change is real - need smarter water management policies.
N
Neha P.
Positive step! But what about illegal constructions on river beds that worsen floods? Many political supporters have buildings there. Will CM take action or just give compensation later? Prevention > cure always.
R
Rajiv B.
Good intentions but execution matters. Last year

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