What are Government Active Measures for Earthquake Saftey?

Main points

Key points

detail

Earthquake prone

59% of people in India are susceptible to earthquakes.

Recent earthquake activity

From November 2024 to February 2025, 159 earthquakes were recorded.

Major earthquake events

The 4.0-magnitude earthquake hit Delhi on February 17, 2025.

Disaster Management Act 2005

Leads to the formation of NDMA, NDRF and SDMA.

The expansion of the earthquake observatory

The count has risen from 80 in 2014 to 168 in February 2025.

Technology progress

The Bhookamp app launches for real-time earthquake updates.

Risk Assessment Plan

NDMA’s EDRI project assessed earthquake risks in 50 cities and planned 16 cities.

According to the PIB, India has witnessed several earthquakes in recent years, highlighting the need for robust disaster preparations. Earthquakes occur due to the movement of tectonic plates in the earth’s crust. When an earthquake hits densely populated areas, it can cause serious damage. About 59% of India are prone to earthquakes and are divided into four earthquake zones by the Bureau of Standards of India (BIS):

Earthquake belt

Risk level

Main fields

area

Highly active

Himalaya, Northeast, Kuchi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

District 4

High

Delhi, part of Jamu and Kashmir, Haryana, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Himaal

Zone 3

Easing

Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala

Zone 2

Low

Deccan Plateau, Central India

India has experienced a devastating earthquake, emphasizing the importance of preparation.

Major earthquakes in India

Between November 2024 and February 2025, India recorded 159 earthquakes, raising concerns about future risks.

Year

Place

Magnitude

casualties

1905

Kangra, Himaal Pradesh

8.0

19,800

2001

Phuket, Gujarat

7.9

12,932

2025

Delhi (Latest)

4.0

No major casualties

What is the government’s initiative on earthquake safety?

To ensure the safety of the earthquake, the Indian government has begun many plans, which are detailed by:

1. Infrastructure and technology enhancements

  • The increase in seismic observers: from 80 (2014) to 168 (2025).
  • Bhookamp app: Provides real-time earthquake alerts to users.
  • Earthquake Early Warning System (EEW): Ongoing research and implementation in the Himalayas.

2. Awareness and policy framework

  • AAPDA KA SAMNA (2025): In March 2025, NDMA aired the Public Awareness Program, which covers disaster preparations on Doordarshan.
  • Simplified Seismic Safety Guide (2021): Ensure safer infrastructure in accordance with Indian building regulations.
  • Homeowners’ Guide (2019): Educate citizens to build earthquake-resistant homes.

3. Measures to reduce disaster risk

  • 10 Points Agenda (2016): Proposed by PM Modi, in line with the disastrous India Vision Dofient 2047.
  • Himalayan earthquake preparation: early warning systems and disaster response plans implemented.
  • Risk transfer mechanism: Infrastructure insurance policy for earthquake damage coverage.

4. International Humanitarian Aid

India has expanded aid under “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” after the Turkiye-Syria earthquake in 2023: Deployment:

  • NDRF Team
  • Medical staff
  • Basic relief supplies

How do government agencies prepare for earthquakes?

Many institutions such as NDRF, NCS, NDMA, SDMA and NIDM are fulfilling their role and responsibilities for earthquake safety. In the table below, all agent roles and responsibilities are described in detail:

mechanism

Roles and responsibilities

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)

It was established in 2006, the Disaster Management Act of 2005, expanded from 8 battalions to 16 battalions. Specializes in rapid disaster response.

National Center for Seismology (NCS)

Manage earthquake monitoring in India since 1898. Research early warning system.

National Disaster Administration (NDMA)

Leaded by PM in 2005. Set policies for disaster management.

National Disaster Management Authority (SDMA)

Leaded by the Chief Minister, responsible for state-level disaster planning.

National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM)

Founded in 1995, it aims to train, research and disaster response skills.

Earthquake Safety and Research Program

1. Earthquake Safety Guide

  • Homeowners’ Guide (2019): Guiding citizens for earthquake-resistant home construction.
  • Simplified Guide (2021): Provide safety standards for new and multi-storey buildings.

2. Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) System

  • Research is underway in the Himalayas.
  • NCS records seismic activity and shares real-time updates online.

3. Earthquake Risk Index (EDRI)

  • NDMA’s EDRI project assesses earthquake risk in Indian cities.
  • The first phase covers 50 cities, and the second phase aims to include 16 cities.

in conclusion

India is actively working to strengthen earthquake preparations through the implementation of key policies, security measures and early warning systems. Government agencies, public awareness campaigns and strong infrastructure initiatives play a vital role in disaster resilience. Although these efforts improve safety, citizens must remain vigilant and follow disaster preparation guidelines to mitigate future risks.