Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

Disasters pose a significant threat to developmental gains, disproportionately affecting the vulnerable and undermining sustainability efforts. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to address these vulnerabilities, while the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) 2015–2030 offers a structured roadmap to mitigate disaster risks.

Body

Interlinkages Between SDGs and the Sendai Framework:

• Shared Objectives:
  • Both frameworks prioritize risk reduction, resilience, and inclusivity. For instance:
    • SDG 1 (No Poverty) aligns with SFDRR’s emphasis on reducing disaster-related losses.
    • SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) directly corresponds to SFDRR's focus on disaster-resilient infrastructure.
  • Example: India’s Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana incorporates disaster-resilient housing for low-income households, meeting SDG and SFDRR goals.
• Converging Principles:
  • Risk-sensitive planning, community empowerment, and environmental sustainability are core principles of both frameworks.
  • Example: Japan’s integration of disaster resilience into urban planning advances SDG 11 and SFDRR’s goal of reducing urban vulnerabilities.

Integrated Approaches to Disaster Risk Reduction and Socio-Economic Development:

• Understanding Disaster Risk : Systematic risk assessment enables effective policy-making and efficient resource utilization.
  • Bangladesh’s Cyclone Preparedness Program, rooted in detailed risk analysis, has significantly reduced cyclone-related deaths, fostering socio-economic stability in coastal areas.
• Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance: Strong institutions and participatory governance ensure effective implementation of DRR strategies.
  • Example: Kerala’s decentralized disaster governance framework enabled rapid response and recovery during floods, promoting adaptive capacity and aligning with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
• Investing in Resilience: Financial investments in disaster-resilient infrastructure, agriculture, and energy reduce vulnerabilities and promote economic stability.
  • Example: Vietnam’s mangrove restoration project safeguards coastal communities from typhoons while enhancing fisheries and biodiversity (SDG 15).
• Enhancing Preparedness and Building Back Better: Post-disaster recovery should not only restore but also improve upon pre-disaster conditions.
  • Example: After the 2004 Tsunami, Aceh Province in Indonesia integrated sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly housing in its rebuilding efforts, promoting long-term development aligned with SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Measures to Further Integrate Sustainable Development Goals and the Sendai Framework:

• Mainstream Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) into Development Policies: Embed DRR principles into national and regional development plans to ensure alignment with SDG targets.
• Capacity Building and Local Empowerment: Train local governments and communities to assess risks and implement mitigation strategies.
  • Expand community-based disaster management programs, particularly in vulnerable regions.
• Strengthen Data and Technology Integration: Develop robust early warning systems through advanced technology like AI, IoT, and GIS mapping.
  • Ensure open access to risk data for better decision-making by policymakers and communities.
• Leverage Global Partnerships: Collaborate internationally with countries like Japan to share best practices, resources, and technologies.
  • Tap into global initiatives like the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) to enhance adaptive capacities.
• Incentivize Sustainable Practices Post-Disasters: Link rebuilding projects to sustainability goals, such as renewable energy adoption or eco-friendly urban designs.
  • Use green bonds to fund post-disaster recovery efforts that align with SDGs like SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy).

Conclusion

Integrating the SDGs and the Sendai Framework ensures that disaster risk reduction becomes a cornerstone of sustainable development. By adopting a multi-sectoral approach, enhancing community resilience, and fostering innovative solutions, countries can reduce vulnerabilities, safeguard developmental gains, and create inclusive, disaster-resilient societies.