ISO 9001:2015

Policy and the People: A Sociological Analysis of Government Relief and Rehabilitation Measures during Natural Disasters in India

Dr. Abhishek Lunayach, Dr. Vijay Khichar & Dr. Hansa Lunayach

Natural disasters have increasingly impacted India over the past decades, causing widespread human, economic, and social losses. Despite significant investments in relief and rehabilitation through the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), State Disaster Response Funds (SDRF), and other programs, disparities in accessibility, efficiency, and equity persist. Marginalized communities, including low-income groups, women, and certain caste populations, often face systemic barriers in receiving timely support. The study recognizes the need to examine disaster management not only from a policy and fund allocation perspective but also through the lens of people’s lived experiences and sociological implications. The present research aims to analyze how government relief and rehabilitation measures are implemented and perceived by affected populations in India. The study has three primary objectives: (1) to assess the allocation and disbursement of disaster relief funds at the central and state levels; (2) to examine accessibility, equity, and inclusivity of relief measures for marginalized communities; and (3) to identify gaps between policy intentions and field-level implementation, offering recommendations for improvement. A quantitative and qualitative methodology was employed, relying mainly on secondary data from government reports (MHA, NDMA, NDRF/SDRF records), published statistics, displacement reports, and academic literature. Where available, qualitative accounts from NGOs and research papers were included to understand the sociological dimensions of disaster response. The findings indicate that while fund allocations have increased in recent years, delays in disbursement, uneven implementation, and socio-economic inequities remain significant challenges. Relief measures often reach urban and accessible populations faster than remote or marginalized communities. Displacement, mental health, and livelihood restoration continue to be under-addressed, revealing gaps in holistic rehabilitation. The study concludes that disaster management in India requires integrated, people-centered approaches that combine timely relief with equitable and socially sensitive rehabilitation. It underscores the importance of monitoring, accountability, and inclusive policy design to enhance both efficiency and trust in government interventions.

Lunayach, A., Khichar, V., & Lunayach, H. (2025). Policy and the People: A Sociological Analysis of Government Relief and Rehabilitation Measures during Natural Disasters in India. International Journal of Advanced Research in Commerce, Management & Social Science, 08(04(II)), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.62823/ijarcmss/8.4(ii).8315

DOI:

Article DOI: 10.62823/IJARCMSS/8.4(II).8315

DOI URL: https://doi.org/10.62823/IJARCMSS/8.4(II).8315


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