North India faces its longest heatwave in 15 years.
Over 100 heat-related deaths reported since March (likely under-reported).
Heatwaves a Natural Disasters?
National Disaster Management Act (NDMA) defines disasters for state-backed compensation.
Heatwaves are not currently included on this list, limiting access to funds.
15th Finance Commission didn't see a need to expand the list.
Heatwave Deaths in India:
Reported deaths decreased in recent years (data may be incomplete).
Longer heatwaves are becoming more frequent.
Accurate death tolls are challenging due to:
Difficulty separating heatstroke from pre-existing conditions.
Varying definitions of a heatwave.
Heat Action Plans (HAPs) are being developed in collaboration with NDMA and IMD.
HAPs aim to:
Understand regional heat patterns.
Identify vulnerable areas.
Create response plans.
Future Considerations:
16th Finance Commission may review requests to include heatwaves in disaster relief.
Standardized methods for classifying heatwave deaths are needed.
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