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Source — Source: PIB ///Category — GS Paper 3 ///Published — 2026-01-21 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Disaster Management, National Disaster Response Force, Security Forces ///Source — Source: PIB ///Category — GS Paper 3 ///Published — 2026-01-21 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Disaster Management, National Disaster Response Force, Security Forces ///

Source: PIB · GS Paper 3

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Raising Day

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) celebrated its Raising Day on 19 January 2026, marking two decades since its inception under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. With 16 battalions, 18,556 personnel across 68 locations and expanded mandates including CBRN and forest fire response, the force plays a pivotal role in India’s disaster management architecture.

2026-01-21

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Source: PIB

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Key Facts and Data Points

Formation: 19 January 2006 under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
Current Strength: 16 battalions, 18,556 personnel deployed at 68 locations (Regional Response Centres & Tactical Pre‑positioning Locations).
Operational Zones: Four zones headquartered in New Delhi.
Battalion Structure: Each battalion has 18 specialised search‑and‑rescue teams.
Training Institution: NDRF Academy (established 2018) – new campus under development at Nagpur.
Mandate: Response to natural & man‑made disasters – collapsed structures, floods, CBRN incidents, mountain/rope rescue, medical first response, animal rescue, and forest fire response (added 2022).
International Deployments: Japan (2011), Nepal earthquake (2015), Operation Dost in Türkiye (2023).
CBRN Preparedness: 2024 declared “Year of CBRN Preparedness” – national workshops, SOPs, training.
INSARAG Mentoring: Mentoring a Heavy Urban Search and Rescue team for INSARAG certification.

Background and Context

The NDRF was created to provide a dedicated, highly trained force for disaster response, complementing the State Disaster Response Forces (SDRFs) and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Its evolution reflects India’s growing focus on risk reduction, capacity building, and international cooperation in disaster management.

Significance for India / Governance / Policy

Strengthening Resilience: Enhances rapid response capability, reducing loss of life and property.
Policy Integration: Works under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and aligns with the National Disaster Management Plan.
Inter‑Agency Coordination: Coordinates with State SDRFs, Armed Forces, and international agencies during large‑scale emergencies.
Emerging Threats: Inclusion of CBRN and forest fire response showcases adaptability to new hazard profiles.
Capacity Building: NDRF Academy serves as a hub for training, research, and development of best practices.

Related Constitutional / Legal Provisions

Disaster Management Act, 2005 – provides the legal framework for the establishment and functioning of NDRF.
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Act, 2005 – outlines the role of NDMA in policy formulation and coordination.
International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) Guidelines – NDRF’s mentorship aligns with global standards.

References

National Disaster Response Fund (link provided in article)
PIB releases on NDRF Raising Day