The State Disaster Response Fund: An Overview

Established under Section 48 (1) (a) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 , the SDRF is the primary fund at the disposal of state governments to deal with notified disasters.

• The fund allows state governments to react promptly to notified disasters.
• The creation of the SDRF was in line with the recommendations put forth by the 13th Finance Commission.
• The fund’s purpose is to offer immediate relief for notified disasters that transpire within the state.
• The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) conducts an annual audit of the fund.

Funding of the SDRF

The Central government contributes 75% to the SDRF for general category states and UTs, and 90% for special category states and UTs, such as Northeast and Hilly states/UTs. This central contribution is disbursed in two annual installments. The state governments contribute the remaining amount.

Discover more about the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) here.

Disasters Covered Under the SDRF

The SDRF covers notified disasters such as cyclones, droughts, earthquakes, fires, floods, tsunamis, hailstorms, landslides, avalanches, cloudbursts, pest attacks, frosts, and cold waves.

Recent Updates on SDRF

The SDRF is the primary fund that state governments are utilizing to tackle the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, state governments can use up to 50% of the fund. However, due to the exceptional circumstances faced by the country, the central government is contemplating relaxing this limit. Several states and UTs have requested the Centre to increase the cap to 70% to cater to the growing demand for beds, sample collection, and screening facilities.