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2641. Which section of the DM Act 2005 empowers the NDMA to recommend guidelines for minimum standards of relief to be provided to persons affected by disasters?
- A. Section 45
- B. Section 65
- C. Section 12
- D. Section 25
Answer: Section 12
Explanation: Section 12 of the DM Act 2005 empowers the NDMA to recommend guidelines for the minimum standards of relief to be provided to persons affected by disaster, including relief for loss of life, injury, and shelter.
2642. Which of the following best describes the concept of 'Build Back Better' as applied to post-disaster reconstruction, including railway infrastructure?
- A. Rebuilding exactly as it was before, with no design changes
- B. Abandoning the affected site permanently instead of rebuilding
- C. Rebuilding only temporary structures with no permanent investment
- D. Rebuilding damaged infrastructure to a standard more resilient than before, incorporating disaster-resistant design to reduce future risk
Answer: Rebuilding damaged infrastructure to a standard more resilient than before, incorporating disaster-resistant design to reduce future risk
Explanation: 'Build Back Better', a key Sendai Framework principle adopted in India's recovery approach, means using reconstruction as an opportunity to incorporate more resilient, disaster-resistant design standards, reducing future vulnerability of infrastructure like railway bridges and tracks.
2643. Which of the following statements about the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF, the fund not the force) is correct under Section 46 of the DM Act 2005?
- A. It is a fund that only foreign governments can contribute to
- B. It replaces the need for any State Disaster Response Fund
- C. It is a fund used exclusively for salaries of NDRF force personnel
- D. It is constituted for meeting expenses for emergency response, relief and rehabilitation in respect of any threatening disaster or actual disaster
Answer: It is constituted for meeting expenses for emergency response, relief and rehabilitation in respect of any threatening disaster or actual disaster
Explanation: Section 46 of the DM Act 2005 constitutes the National Disaster Response Fund to meet expenses for emergency response, relief and rehabilitation for any threatening disaster situation, supplementing (not replacing) the State Disaster Response Funds under Section 48.
2644. Which of the following is an example of 'structural mitigation' measures relevant to railway disaster risk reduction?
- A. Training RPF personnel in first-aid procedures
- B. Strengthening bridges, embankments and track infrastructure to withstand floods and earthquakes
- C. Conducting public awareness campaigns about railway safety
- D. Enacting new railway safety legislation
Answer: Strengthening bridges, embankments and track infrastructure to withstand floods and earthquakes
Explanation: Structural mitigation involves physical/engineering measures like strengthening bridges, embankments and tracks, while awareness campaigns, legislation, and training are non-structural mitigation measures.
2645. Which of the following best distinguishes 'exposure' from 'vulnerability' in disaster risk terminology?
- A. Exposure applies only to buildings, while vulnerability applies only to people
- B. Exposure refers to people, assets, or systems located in hazard-prone areas, while vulnerability refers to the conditions/characteristics that make them susceptible to harm from a hazard
- C. Exposure and vulnerability are legally synonymous terms with identical meaning
- D. Vulnerability is a measure of financial loss only, unrelated to physical harm
Answer: Exposure refers to people, assets, or systems located in hazard-prone areas, while vulnerability refers to the conditions/characteristics that make them susceptible to harm from a hazard
Explanation: Exposure is about presence in a hazard zone (e.g., a train passing through a flood-prone section), while vulnerability concerns inherent susceptibility to harm (e.g., weak embankments, old coaches, lack of preparedness) — both together with hazard determine overall risk.
2646. Which of the following is the most accurate description of 'early warning systems' in the context of railway disaster preparedness?
- A. Systems/mechanisms that detect and communicate hazard information in advance (e.g., flood alerts affecting tracks, landslide-prone zones) to allow timely preventive action like traffic restriction
- B. A punishment mechanism for railway staff negligence
- C. A category of insurance policy for railway passengers
- D. Systems used only to sell railway tickets in advance
Answer: Systems/mechanisms that detect and communicate hazard information in advance (e.g., flood alerts affecting tracks, landslide-prone zones) to allow timely preventive action like traffic restriction
Explanation: Early warning systems detect hazards (floods, landslides, cyclones) in advance and disseminate alerts to railway control offices, enabling preventive measures such as speed restrictions or traffic suspension on vulnerable sections before a disaster occurs, forming a key preparedness measure.
2647. Which of the following is typically NOT a direct function of RPF during a major railway accident response, but instead falls to the medical/health department?
- A. Clinical triage and definitive medical treatment of injured passengers
- B. Cordoning off the accident site to prevent unauthorized entry
- C. Coordinating with local police for law and order at the site
- D. Assisting in crowd control at the accident site and nearby stations
Answer: Clinical triage and definitive medical treatment of injured passengers
Explanation: Clinical triage and definitive medical treatment are functions of medical/health teams (railway hospitals, ARMV medical staff, and civil health authorities), while RPF's role centers on security, site cordoning, crowd/traffic control and law-and-order coordination.
2648. Which of the following best explains why the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) is placed under the Ministry of Civil Aviation rather than the Ministry of Railways?
- A. Because railway accidents are legally classified as aviation accidents
- B. Because the Ministry of Railways lacks any legal authority over safety matters
- C. To ensure independence and objectivity in railway accident investigations, avoiding potential conflict of interest with the Ministry of Railways which operates the railways
- D. Because the CRS also investigates airplane crashes exclusively
Answer: To ensure independence and objectivity in railway accident investigations, avoiding potential conflict of interest with the Ministry of Railways which operates the railways
Explanation: The CRS is administratively placed under the Ministry of Civil Aviation (not Railways) specifically to maintain independence in investigating railway accidents, since the Ministry of Railways itself operates the railway system and would otherwise be investigating itself.
2649. Under the Railways Act, 1989, a statutory inquiry into a serious railway accident to determine its cause is typically conducted by which authority?
- A. The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS)
- B. The State Human Rights Commission
- C. The National Disaster Management Authority
- D. The Railway Protection Force alone
Answer: The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS)
Explanation: Under the Railways Act, 1989, serious train accidents are statutorily inquired into by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), an office under the Ministry of Civil Aviation for independent oversight, distinct from routine departmental/RPF investigations.
2650. Which of the following correctly describes RPF's statutory basis and core function, as relevant to its role during railway disasters?
- A. RPF is constituted under the Railway Protection Force Act, 1957, primarily for the security of railway property, passenger area, and passengers, and plays a key supporting role in law and order, crowd control and site security during accidents
- B. RPF is constituted under the DM Act 2005 exclusively for disaster relief
- C. RPF has no statutory basis and functions purely as an informal volunteer body
- D. RPF's sole legal function is ticket checking
Answer: RPF is constituted under the Railway Protection Force Act, 1957, primarily for the security of railway property, passenger area, and passengers, and plays a key supporting role in law and order, crowd control and site security during accidents
Explanation: RPF derives its statutory authority from the Railway Protection Force Act, 1957 (as amended), tasked with security of railway property and passenger area/passengers; during disasters it supports law and order, crowd management, and coordinates with NDRF/local police/district administration, but disaster management overall is governed by the DM Act 2005 framework.
2651. Which of the following is a correct statement regarding the composition of the State Executive Committee (SEC) under Section 20 of the DM Act 2005?
- A. The SEC is chaired by the Governor of the state
- B. The SEC consists exclusively of elected MLAs
- C. The SEC has no fixed Chairperson and rotates leadership daily
- D. The SEC consists of the Chief Secretary of the State Government as Chairperson, with not more than four other officers as members
Answer: The SEC consists of the Chief Secretary of the State Government as Chairperson, with not more than four other officers as members
Explanation: Section 20 of the DM Act 2005 provides that the SEC consists of the Chief Secretary of the State Government as ex-officio Chairperson, and not more than four other officers of the State Government as ex-officio members, as notified by the state government.
2652. As per the DM Act 2005, which authority is responsible for reviewing the implementation of the National Policy on Disaster Management by different ministries/departments?
- A. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- B. Only the Comptroller and Auditor General
- C. Only the Election Commission of India
- D. Only the Union Public Service Commission
Answer: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
Explanation: Under Section 6 of the DM Act 2005, the NDMA is responsible for laying down policies and reviewing/coordinating the implementation of the National Policy and National Plan on Disaster Management by ministries and departments of the Government of India.
2653. Which of the following statements correctly distinguishes 'relief' from 'rehabilitation' in disaster management terminology?
- A. Relief and rehabilitation are legally identical terms with no distinction
- B. Relief applies only to railway employees, while rehabilitation applies only to passengers
- C. Rehabilitation always precedes relief chronologically
- D. Relief refers to immediate assistance (food, water, shelter, medical aid) provided during/right after a disaster, while rehabilitation refers to longer-term restoration of normal life and livelihoods
Answer: Relief refers to immediate assistance (food, water, shelter, medical aid) provided during/right after a disaster, while rehabilitation refers to longer-term restoration of normal life and livelihoods
Explanation: Relief is short-term emergency assistance immediately after a disaster, whereas rehabilitation is the longer-term process of restoring affected persons' normal lives, livelihoods and community functioning, forming part of the recovery phase.
2654. Which of the following best describes the 'incident command system' (ICS) principle as increasingly adopted in Indian disaster response, including at major railway accident sites?
- A. A system where each agency works completely independently with no shared command structure
- B. A rule that only the senior-most police officer present can issue any order
- C. A financial auditing system used only for post-disaster fund disbursement
- D. A standardized on-scene management structure with a designated Incident Commander coordinating all responding agencies to avoid duplication and confusion
Answer: A standardized on-scene management structure with a designated Incident Commander coordinating all responding agencies to avoid duplication and confusion
Explanation: The Incident Command System, promoted under NDMA guidelines and the NDMP, establishes a unified, standardized command structure with a single Incident Commander to coordinate multiple responding agencies (police, RPF, NDRF, fire, health, railway officials) at a disaster site.
2655. Under the DM Act 2005, which authority is empowered under Section 34 to take measures for the management of disasters at the district level, including procuring exclusive or preferential use of amenities from any person?
- A. Only the State Disaster Management Authority
- B. The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA)
- C. Only the Railway Protection Force
- D. Only the NDMA at the national level
Answer: The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA)
Explanation: Section 34 empowers the DDMA to take measures for disaster management in the district, including requisitioning resources, controlling and restricting vehicular traffic, and procuring exclusive or preferential use of amenities from any person for rescue operations.
2656. A major fire breaking out in a stationary passenger train at a railway station, caused by an electrical short-circuit, would be classified under which broad disaster category?
- A. Man-made/human-induced disaster (accidental, technological)
- B. Natural geological disaster
- C. Biological disaster
- D. Natural hydro-meteorological disaster
Answer: Man-made/human-induced disaster (accidental, technological)
Explanation: A fire caused by electrical/technical failure is a man-made (accidental/technological) disaster, distinct from naturally-caused hazards, and falls squarely within categories the NDMP assigns for accidental fires, industrial and infrastructure failures.
2657. Which of the following disasters is generally classified as 'meteorological/climatological' rather than 'hydrological' in Indian disaster classification schemes?
- A. Cloudburst-induced flash flood
- B. Flood
- C. Heat wave and cold wave
- D. River bank erosion
Answer: Heat wave and cold wave
Explanation: Heat waves and cold waves are classified as meteorological/climatological disasters, driven by atmospheric temperature extremes, distinct from hydrological disasters like floods and river erosion that involve water-related processes.
2658. Which of the following is the correct definition of 'reconstruction' as generally understood in India's disaster management framework?
- A. A short-term financial grant given immediately after a disaster
- B. The rebuilding and restoration of damaged infrastructure, housing, and livelihoods to a condition equal to or better than pre-disaster levels
- C. The complete demolition of all structures in a disaster-affected area
- D. A legal term restricted only to compensation for railway property damage
Answer: The rebuilding and restoration of damaged infrastructure, housing, and livelihoods to a condition equal to or better than pre-disaster levels
Explanation: Reconstruction, part of the recovery phase, refers to rebuilding damaged infrastructure and restoring livelihoods to pre-disaster or better levels, often incorporating 'Build Back Better' principles to reduce future vulnerability.
2659. As per the DM Act 2005, the term 'disaster management' includes a continuous and integrated process of planning, organising, coordinating and implementing measures which are necessary or expedient for which of the following?
- A. Prevention of danger/threat, mitigation, capacity building, preparedness, response, assessment, relief and rehabilitation
- B. Only construction of new government buildings
- C. Only post-disaster financial compensation to victims
- D. Only training of Members of Parliament
Answer: Prevention of danger/threat, mitigation, capacity building, preparedness, response, assessment, relief and rehabilitation
Explanation: Section 2(e) of the DM Act 2005 defines 'disaster management' comprehensively as a continuous, integrated process covering prevention, mitigation, capacity building, preparedness, response, assessment, relief and rehabilitation, reflecting the full disaster cycle.
2660. Under the DM Act 2005, which of the following is defined as an 'affected area' for the purposes of the Act?
- A. Areas where the Army has established a permanent cantonment
- B. Only coastal districts of India
- C. An area or part of a country affected by a disaster
- D. Only areas notified as Union Territories
Answer: An area or part of a country affected by a disaster
Explanation: Section 2(a) of the DM Act 2005 defines 'affected area' simply as an area or part of the country affected by a disaster, giving the term a broad and flexible operational meaning applicable to any disaster-hit locality, including a railway accident site.
2661. Which of the following best defines 'capacity building' as used in the DM Act 2005 and national disaster management policy?
- A. Building only physical infrastructure such as roads and bridges
- B. Purchasing insurance policies for government buildings
- C. Recruiting additional police constables for routine law and order duties
- D. Identification of existing resources/capabilities and resource gaps, and enhancing knowledge, skills, tools and institutional capacity for disaster management at all levels
Answer: Identification of existing resources/capabilities and resource gaps, and enhancing knowledge, skills, tools and institutional capacity for disaster management at all levels
Explanation: Section 2(b) of the DM Act 2005 defines 'capacity building' broadly to include identification of existing resources and resource gaps, and building capabilities to effectively manage disasters, including knowledge and skills enhancement of personnel across all levels.
2662. In a large railway disaster requiring NDRF deployment, which of the following best describes the coordination relationship between NDRF and RPF at the accident site?
- A. NDRF and RPF have no operational interaction; they work in entirely separate zones
- B. RPF commands NDRF operations at all railway accident sites
- C. NDRF replaces RPF entirely and takes over all railway security functions permanently
- D. NDRF provides specialized search, rescue and evacuation expertise, while RPF handles railway security, access control, crowd management and assists local administration/police in law and order at the site
Answer: NDRF provides specialized search, rescue and evacuation expertise, while RPF handles railway security, access control, crowd management and assists local administration/police in law and order at the site
Explanation: NDRF teams bring specialized search-and-rescue, medical first response and technical disaster expertise, while RPF continues its core mandate of railway property/passenger security, crowd control, and coordination with local police and district administration, functioning as complementary agencies.
2663. NDRF's Director General functions under the overall administrative control of which Ministry?
- A. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
- B. Ministry of Home Affairs
- C. Ministry of Defence
- D. Ministry of Railways
Answer: Ministry of Home Affairs
Explanation: NDRF operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, while its operational deployment during disasters is directed as per the National Disaster Management Plan and NDMA guidelines.
2664. Which of the following statements about the NDRF's composition is correct?
- A. NDRF battalions are recruited directly as a separate cadre with no CAPF linkage
- B. NDRF is a wing of the Indian Army under the Ministry of Defence
- C. NDRF battalions are raised from various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) such as BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP and SSB
- D. NDRF is composed entirely of state police personnel on deputation
Answer: NDRF battalions are raised from various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) such as BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP and SSB
Explanation: NDRF battalions are constituted by drawing personnel from India's Central Armed Police Forces (BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB), who are trained and equipped specifically for specialized disaster response, then organised into dedicated NDRF battalions under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
2665. Scenario: A passenger train derails within a district, killing over 50 people and requiring inter-agency coordination. Which authority is primarily responsible for overall on-ground coordination among police, fire, health, and railway agencies at the district level?
- A. The National Disaster Management Authority directly, bypassing district structures
- B. Only the RPF Security Commissioner of the zone
- C. Only the Railway Board in New Delhi
- D. The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), chaired by the District Magistrate
Answer: The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), chaired by the District Magistrate
Explanation: At the ground level, the DDMA under the District Magistrate coordinates multi-agency response, working alongside railway officials (who manage the railway-specific technical response) and RPF (which handles security, crowd control and assists with law and order).
2666. Which of the following best describes the role of the District Magistrate/Deputy Commissioner in the DDMA under the DM Act 2005?
- A. A purely advisory member with no executive powers
- B. An officer appointed solely by the NDRF
- C. The elected head of the Zila Parishad only
- D. Ex-officio Chairperson of the DDMA, responsible for overall coordination of disaster management at the district level
Answer: Ex-officio Chairperson of the DDMA, responsible for overall coordination of disaster management at the district level
Explanation: Under Section 25 of the DM Act 2005, the District Magistrate/Deputy Commissioner/District Collector serves as ex-officio Chairperson of the DDMA and is central to coordinating district-level disaster management, including response involving railway accidents in the district.
2667. Under Section 71 of the DM Act 2005, which courts are barred from entertaining any suit or proceeding in respect of anything done or directions issued under the Act by the Central Government, National Authority, State Government, State Authority or District Authority?
- A. High Courts in all matters including writ jurisdiction
- B. Every court including the Supreme Court and High Courts
- C. Every court other than the Supreme Court and the High Courts
- D. The Supreme Court of India in all matters
Answer: Every court other than the Supreme Court and the High Courts
Explanation: Section 71 provides that no court except the Supreme Court or a High Court has jurisdiction to entertain any suit or proceeding in respect of actions, orders, directions, instructions or guidelines under the Act.
2668. Which section of the DM Act 2005 gives the Act overriding effect over other laws, stating its provisions shall have effect notwithstanding anything inconsistent contained in any other law?
- A. Section 12
- B. Section 18
- C. Section 72
- D. Section 41
Answer: Section 72
Explanation: Section 72 of the DM Act 2005 gives the Act an overriding effect, providing that its provisions shall have effect notwithstanding anything inconsistent in any other law, except the provisions of the Constitution relating to fundamental rights.
2669. The predecessor global framework to the Sendai Framework, adopted in 2005 and running until 2015, was known as the:
- A. Kyoto Protocol
- B. Hyogo Framework for Action
- C. Paris Agreement
- D. Basel Convention
Answer: Hyogo Framework for Action
Explanation: The Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-2015 was the predecessor global disaster risk reduction framework, adopted the same year as India's own DM Act 2005, and was later succeeded by the Sendai Framework.
2670. India adopted the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction at a UN conference held in which year?
- A. 2015
- B. 2005
- C. 2020
- D. 2010
Answer: 2015
Explanation: The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 was adopted at the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held in Sendai, Japan, in March 2015.
2671. Which of the following is NOT one of the four priority areas identified under the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030), which India has adopted?
- A. Abolishing all state disaster management authorities
- B. Investing in disaster risk reduction for resilience
- C. Understanding disaster risk
- D. Strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk
Answer: Abolishing all state disaster management authorities
Explanation: The Sendai Framework's four priorities are: understanding disaster risk, strengthening governance, investing in risk reduction for resilience, and enhancing preparedness for effective response and 'Build Back Better'. Abolishing SDMAs is not part of it and contradicts India's institutional framework.
2672. Under Section 73 of the DM Act 2005, which of the following is provided as a legal protection for actions taken in good faith?
- A. Protection applies only to actions taken after formal written orders in triplicate
- B. No suit, prosecution or other legal proceeding shall lie against the Central/State Government or any officer for anything done in good faith under the Act
- C. Only the Prime Minister is protected from legal proceedings
- D. All officers are automatically liable regardless of intent
Answer: No suit, prosecution or other legal proceeding shall lie against the Central/State Government or any officer for anything done in good faith under the Act
Explanation: Section 73 provides good-faith protection: no suit or legal proceeding lies against the government or any officer for anything done or intended to be done in good faith under the Act, encouraging decisive emergency action.
2673. Under Section 61 of the DM Act 2005, which principle is explicitly incorporated to prevent discrimination in relief and assistance to disaster victims?
- A. Relief is limited exclusively to railway employees in railway disasters
- B. Only government employees are eligible for compensation
- C. No discrimination on grounds of sex, caste, community, descent or religion in relief and assistance
- D. Only citizens above 60 years of age are eligible for relief
Answer: No discrimination on grounds of sex, caste, community, descent or religion in relief and assistance
Explanation: Section 61 explicitly prohibits discrimination on grounds of sex, caste, community, descent or religion in providing compensation and relief to persons affected by a disaster.
2674. Under the DM Act 2005, which authority is empowered to recommend the amount of funds required for mitigation to be provided in the annual budgets of ministries/departments?
- A. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- B. Comptroller and Auditor General
- C. Reserve Bank of India
- D. Railway Claims Tribunal
Answer: National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
Explanation: Under Section 6, NDMA recommends provision of funds for mitigation and preparedness measures to be included in the plans and budgets of ministries/departments of the Central Government.
2675. Which of the following is the most accurate distinction between a 'hazard' and a 'disaster'?
- A. A hazard occurs after a disaster as part of the recovery phase
- B. A hazard is a potentially damaging physical event or phenomenon, while a disaster is the actual serious disruption of a community's functioning when the hazard interacts with vulnerability, exceeding coping capacity
- C. A hazard and a disaster are legally synonymous terms under the DM Act 2005
- D. A hazard only refers to man-made events while a disaster only refers to natural events
Answer: A hazard is a potentially damaging physical event or phenomenon, while a disaster is the actual serious disruption of a community's functioning when the hazard interacts with vulnerability, exceeding coping capacity
Explanation: A hazard is the potential threat (e.g., a flood-prone river), while a disaster is the actual realized disruption when the hazard meets vulnerable exposed elements and overwhelms coping capacity — a foundational DRR distinction.
2676. 'Risk' in disaster management is generally understood as a function of which combination of factors?
- A. Only the geographical size of the affected region
- B. Hazard, exposure and vulnerability, moderated by capacity to cope
- C. Only the number of government departments involved
- D. Only the annual budget allocated to disaster relief
Answer: Hazard, exposure and vulnerability, moderated by capacity to cope
Explanation: Disaster risk is commonly expressed as a function of hazard, exposure and vulnerability, moderated by the capacity of the community/system to cope and adapt — a standard DRR conceptual framework used in Indian policy documents.
2677. Which of the following best describes the concept of 'vulnerability' as used in disaster risk management terminology?
- A. The characteristics and circumstances of a community, system or asset that make it susceptible to the damaging effects of a hazard
- B. The total monetary value of assets located in a hazard-prone area
- C. The physical force or intensity of a hazard event itself
- D. The number of relief camps established after a disaster
Answer: The characteristics and circumstances of a community, system or asset that make it susceptible to the damaging effects of a hazard
Explanation: Vulnerability refers to the conditions (physical, social, economic, environmental) determined by factors/processes that increase susceptibility of a community to the impact of hazards, distinct from the hazard itself or exposure/risk.
2678. As per the DM Act 2005's overall framework, the Ministry of Railways' departmental disaster management responsibilities under Section 36 would primarily include which of the following?
- A. Conducting national elections for Parliament
- B. Issuing currency notes and coins
- C. Preparing its own disaster management plan, integrating mitigation into railway infrastructure projects, and coordinating response to railway accidents/disasters
- D. Regulating stock exchanges
Answer: Preparing its own disaster management plan, integrating mitigation into railway infrastructure projects, and coordinating response to railway accidents/disasters
Explanation: Under Section 36, every ministry (including Railways) must prepare its own DM plan, integrate mitigation into its projects, and coordinate response to disasters within its domain — for Railways, this means accident/derailment response frameworks.
2679. Section 36 of the DM Act 2005 lays down the responsibilities of which entity, including integrating disaster prevention measures into its developmental plans?
- A. Only private railway contractors
- B. Only NGOs registered under the Societies Registration Act
- C. Only the judiciary
- D. Every Ministry or Department of the Government of India
Answer: Every Ministry or Department of the Government of India
Explanation: Section 36 lays down responsibilities of every Ministry/Department of the Government of India, requiring them to integrate disaster prevention/mitigation measures into their developmental plans and projects.
2680. Under Section 35 of the DM Act 2005, which authority has overarching responsibility for taking all measures necessary for disaster management at the national level?
- A. Local police station in charge
- B. District Magistrate alone
- C. Central Government
- D. Municipal Corporation alone
Answer: Central Government
Explanation: Section 35 vests the Central Government with the overarching responsibility for taking all measures necessary for the purpose of disaster management, working through NDMA/NEC and coordination with states.
2681. Which body serves as the crisis management support body at the central level, assisting the Cabinet Secretariat in monitoring emerging crisis situations on a continuing basis?
- A. State Public Service Commission
- B. Crisis Management Group (CMG), comprising nodal officers from various central ministries/departments
- C. Railway Board's Commercial Directorate
- D. District Collectorate Control Room
Answer: Crisis Management Group (CMG), comprising nodal officers from various central ministries/departments
Explanation: The Crisis Management Group, with nodal officers from central ministries/departments, monitors emerging crisis situations continuously and coordinates central response, supporting the NCMC/Cabinet Secretariat structure.
2682. Which of the following is a correct statement about the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) in the disaster management institutional framework?
- A. It is an apex executive body, chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, dealing with major crises having serious or national ramifications, including certain disaster situations
- B. It is a statutory body created directly under Section 3 of the DM Act 2005 with the Prime Minister as chair
- C. It has been abolished and replaced entirely by the NDMA
- D. It is a judicial tribunal that adjudicates disaster compensation disputes
Answer: It is an apex executive body, chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, dealing with major crises having serious or national ramifications, including certain disaster situations
Explanation: The NCMC, chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, is an apex executive committee (not a statutory DM Act body) that deals with major crises with serious or national ramifications, including large-scale disasters, providing high-level coordination.
2683. In a major train derailment scenario, NDRF teams deployed to the site typically operate under which coordination arrangement with railway authorities and RPF?
- A. RPF is legally barred from being present at the accident site while NDRF operates
- B. NDRF provides specialized search-and-rescue expertise while the on-site railway incident commander coordinates overall response, with RPF handling site security and crowd control
- C. NDRF takes over complete administrative control of railway operations, superseding the Divisional Railway Manager
- D. NDRF operates entirely independently with no interaction with railway or RPF personnel
Answer: NDRF provides specialized search-and-rescue expertise while the on-site railway incident commander coordinates overall response, with RPF handling site security and crowd control
Explanation: In practice, NDRF provides specialist search-and-rescue capability while the railway's on-site incident commander (senior railway officer) coordinates the overall response, and RPF provides site security, crowd control and rescue-support coordination.
2684. NDRF battalions are drawn from which category of central forces, and organized around which core capability?
- A. Personnel drawn on deputation from Central Armed Police Forces (such as BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB), specially trained and equipped for search, rescue and specialized response
- B. Personnel recruited exclusively as fresh civilian volunteers with no prior force background
- C. Personnel drawn solely from the Indian Army's infantry regiments
- D. Personnel drawn exclusively from state police forces
Answer: Personnel drawn on deputation from Central Armed Police Forces (such as BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB), specially trained and equipped for search, rescue and specialized response
Explanation: NDRF battalions are formed from personnel deputed from Central Armed Police Forces (BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB), trained in specialized skills for search, rescue and response to natural/man-made disasters including CBRN emergencies.
2685. Which of the following correctly describes the organizational relationship between NDMA and NIDM?
- A. NIDM and NDMA are unrelated bodies with no institutional linkage
- B. NIDM is senior to and directly supervises the NDMA
- C. NIDM was abolished and merged into NDRF
- D. NIDM works within the broad policy framework laid down by NDMA and is expected to assist it in national-level training and capacity building
Answer: NIDM works within the broad policy framework laid down by NDMA and is expected to assist it in national-level training and capacity building
Explanation: NIDM operates within the policy framework set by NDMA, supporting it through training, research and capacity-building activities rather than functioning as a superior or unrelated body.
2686. Which of the following statements about the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) is correct?
- A. It has statutory power to declare a national emergency
- B. It functions as a court of appeal for disaster compensation disputes
- C. It is the operational rescue force deployed at disaster sites
- D. It undertakes training, research, documentation and development of a national-level information base for disaster management, working within the broad policy framework laid down by NDMA
Answer: It undertakes training, research, documentation and development of a national-level information base for disaster management, working within the broad policy framework laid down by NDMA
Explanation: NIDM, constituted under Section 42 of the DM Act 2005, focuses on training, research, documentation and capacity building, functioning as a knowledge/training institution, not an operational rescue force.
2687. India's National Policy on Disaster Management identifies which of the following as one of its core objectives?
- A. Eliminating the role of state governments in disaster management entirely
- B. Promoting a culture of prevention, preparedness and resilience at all levels through knowledge, innovation and education
- C. Centralizing all disaster funds exclusively with the Ministry of Railways
- D. Replacing NDRF with private contractors for all rescue operations
Answer: Promoting a culture of prevention, preparedness and resilience at all levels through knowledge, innovation and education
Explanation: The National Policy on Disaster Management (2009) aims to build a safer India by developing a holistic, proactive, multi-disaster-oriented and technology-driven strategy, promoting a culture of prevention and preparedness.
2688. Which of the following is the correct sequence of the four priority areas/themes under the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, which has influenced India's post-2015 disaster policy?
- A. Only financial compensation to disaster victims
- B. Railway safety audits; road safety audits; port safety audits; airport safety audits
- C. Relief distribution; insurance claims; media coverage; foreign aid negotiation
- D. Understanding disaster risk; strengthening governance; investing in resilience; enhancing preparedness for effective response and 'Build Back Better'
Answer: Understanding disaster risk; strengthening governance; investing in resilience; enhancing preparedness for effective response and 'Build Back Better'
Explanation: The Sendai Framework (2015-2030) has four priorities: understanding disaster risk, strengthening disaster risk governance, investing in resilience, and enhancing preparedness for effective response and Build Back Better in recovery.
2689. Under the NDMP, which of the following best describes the responsibility matrix approach used to assign disaster response roles to central ministries?
- A. Responsibilities are assigned randomly on a rotational basis each year
- B. Only the Ministry of Home Affairs handles all hazard types with no other ministry involved
- C. Each hazard type is mapped to a designated nodal ministry/department along with supporting agencies for a coordinated multi-agency response
- D. Only state governments are assigned responsibilities, with no role for central ministries
Answer: Each hazard type is mapped to a designated nodal ministry/department along with supporting agencies for a coordinated multi-agency response
Explanation: The NDMP uses a responsibility matrix mapping each hazard to a nodal central ministry/department (e.g., Ministry of Railways for railway accidents) plus supporting agencies, ensuring coordinated multi-agency response.
2690. A major train derailment caused by track sabotage would be classified under which broad disaster category?
- A. Biological disaster
- B. Geological disaster
- C. Man-made disaster (accidental/industrial category, with a criminal/security dimension)
- D. Hydro-meteorological disaster
Answer: Man-made disaster (accidental/industrial category, with a criminal/security dimension)
Explanation: A sabotage-caused derailment is a man-made disaster with both an accidental/industrial dimension and a security/criminal dimension, directly relevant to RPF's investigative role.
2691. Which of the following disaster types is correctly classified as 'geological' under India's disaster classification?
- A. Cyclone and flood
- B. Epidemic and food poisoning
- C. Earthquake and landslide
- D. Train accident and building collapse
Answer: Earthquake and landslide
Explanation: Earthquakes and landslides arise from geological processes (tectonic movement, slope instability), placing them in the geological disaster category distinct from hydro-meteorological or man-made categories.
2692. Which of the following disaster types is correctly classified as 'hydro-meteorological' under India's disaster classification framework?
- A. Cyclone, flood and drought
- B. Industrial fire and gas leak
- C. Earthquake and landslide
- D. Epidemic and pandemic
Answer: Cyclone, flood and drought
Explanation: Cyclones, floods and droughts are hydro-meteorological disasters, driven by weather and climate systems, distinct from geological disasters like earthquakes/landslides or biological disasters like epidemics.
2693. 'Non-structural mitigation measures' in disaster management primarily include which of the following?
- A. Only railway track relaying and bridge reconstruction
- B. Only construction of flood-resistant buildings
- C. Land-use planning, building codes, early warning systems, and public awareness/training
- D. Only deployment of NDRF battalions during response
Answer: Land-use planning, building codes, early warning systems, and public awareness/training
Explanation: Non-structural mitigation includes policy and knowledge-based measures such as land-use planning, building codes, early warning systems and training/awareness, as opposed to physical engineering works.
2694. In the context of disaster risk reduction, 'structural mitigation measures' refer to which of the following?
- A. Only legal and policy frameworks with no physical component
- B. Only insurance and financial risk-transfer mechanisms
- C. Only public awareness campaigns and training programs
- D. Physical/engineering interventions such as retrofitting buildings, building embankments, or strengthening bridges to reduce disaster impact
Answer: Physical/engineering interventions such as retrofitting buildings, building embankments, or strengthening bridges to reduce disaster impact
Explanation: Structural mitigation measures are physical/engineering interventions (retrofitting, embankments, reinforced structures) that reduce vulnerability, as distinguished from non-structural measures like policy, awareness and training.
2695. Which of the following best distinguishes 'response' from 'recovery' in the disaster management cycle?
- A. Recovery occurs before the disaster strikes, while response occurs after
- B. Response involves immediate life-saving actions during/right after a disaster, while recovery involves longer-term restoration and rebuilding to pre-disaster or improved conditions
- C. Response is only conducted by NGOs while recovery is only conducted by the government
- D. Response and recovery are identical terms used interchangeably in Indian policy
Answer: Response involves immediate life-saving actions during/right after a disaster, while recovery involves longer-term restoration and rebuilding to pre-disaster or improved conditions
Explanation: Response covers immediate life-saving measures (search, rescue, medical aid) during and right after a disaster, while recovery covers restoring normalcy, rebuilding infrastructure and livelihoods over the longer term.
2696. Under the DM Act 2005, which of the following is a correct statement about the District Disaster Management Plan?
- A. It replaces the State Disaster Management Plan entirely
- B. It requires no approval and can be implemented directly by any NGO
- C. It must be prepared by the DDMA and reviewed and updated annually
- D. It is prepared solely by the Railway Board for railway-prone districts
Answer: It must be prepared by the DDMA and reviewed and updated annually
Explanation: The District Disaster Management Plan is prepared by the DDMA and must be reviewed and updated annually to remain relevant to local hazard profiles and resources.
2697. Under Section 30 of the DM Act 2005, the District Disaster Management Authority's functions include which of the following?
- A. Acting as the district planning, coordinating and implementing body for disaster management, subordinate to NDMA and SDMA directions
- B. Only sanctioning railway infrastructure projects
- C. Only prosecuting criminal offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
- D. Only conducting elections at the district level
Answer: Acting as the district planning, coordinating and implementing body for disaster management, subordinate to NDMA and SDMA directions
Explanation: Under Section 30, the DDMA acts as the district planning, coordinating and implementing body for disaster management, and must follow the directions of NDMA and SDMA.
2698. Under the DM Act 2005, which authority is responsible for ensuring that all departments of a state prepare their own disaster management plans in accordance with the State Plan?
- A. State Executive Committee
- B. Election Commission of India
- C. National Institute of Disaster Management
- D. Comptroller and Auditor General
Answer: State Executive Committee
Explanation: The State Executive Committee coordinates and monitors implementation, ensuring that state departments prepare their disaster management plans consistent with the State Plan.
2699. Under Section 24 of the DM Act 2005, in the event of a threatening disaster situation, the State Executive Committee has powers to do all of the following EXCEPT:
- A. Requisition resources, provisions, vehicles or other essential things from any agency
- B. Amend the Constitution of India to grant emergency powers
- C. Give directions for the release of relief and assistance
- D. Control and restrict vehicular traffic to and from a disaster area
Answer: Amend the Constitution of India to grant emergency powers
Explanation: The SEC has wide statutory powers during a threatening disaster situation, such as controlling traffic and requisitioning resources, but has no power to amend the Constitution — that requires Parliament under Article 368.
2700. Under the DM Act 2005, a State Plan for disaster management is prepared by which authority?
- A. National Disaster Management Authority directly
- B. District Magistrate acting independently
- C. Railway Board in consultation with the Ministry of Home Affairs
- D. State Executive Committee, approved by the State Disaster Management Authority
Answer: State Executive Committee, approved by the State Disaster Management Authority
Explanation: Under Section 23 of the DM Act 2005, the State Executive Committee prepares the State Plan, which is approved by the State Disaster Management Authority.
2701. As per the DM Act 2005, the National Plan for disaster management must include measures for which of the following?
- A. Only the training curriculum of the Railway Protection Force
- B. Only foreign disaster relief cooperation treaties
- C. Prevention or mitigation of disasters, integration of mitigation measures into development plans, and preparedness and capacity building
- D. Only relief distribution after a disaster has occurred
Answer: Prevention or mitigation of disasters, integration of mitigation measures into development plans, and preparedness and capacity building
Explanation: The National Plan under the DM Act must include measures for prevention/mitigation of disasters, integration of mitigation into development plans, and preparedness/capacity building, among other things.
2702. Which of the following is NOT a function assigned to the National Executive Committee (NEC) under Section 10 of the DM Act 2005?
- A. Declaring a state as 'disaster affected' through a Presidential proclamation
- B. Preparing the National Plan to be approved by NDMA
- C. Coordinating and monitoring implementation of the National Policy and National Plan
- D. Monitoring implementation of guidelines issued by NDMA
Answer: Declaring a state as 'disaster affected' through a Presidential proclamation
Explanation: There is no provision under the DM Act 2005 for declaring a state 'disaster affected' via a Presidential proclamation; NEC's real functions under Section 10 include coordinating, monitoring and preparing the National Plan.
2703. Under Section 6 of the DM Act 2005, the National Disaster Management Authority is empowered to lay down which of the following?
- A. Policies, plans and guidelines for disaster management to ensure timely and effective response
- B. Criminal procedure for offences under the Indian Penal Code
- C. Recruitment rules for the Indian Railways
- D. Only the annual budget of state governments
Answer: Policies, plans and guidelines for disaster management to ensure timely and effective response
Explanation: Section 6 empowers NDMA to lay down policies, plans and guidelines for disaster management for ensuring timely and effective response to disasters, and to approve the National Plan.
2704. Under the DM Act 2005, which section defines 'capacity building' as an obligation running through the entire disaster management process?
- A. Section 6
- B. Section 2(b)
- C. Section 11
- D. Section 2(e)
Answer: Section 2(b)
Explanation: Section 2(b) of the DM Act 2005 defines 'capacity building' to include identification of existing resources and resource gaps, training, and skill development for disaster management at all levels.
2705. As per the National Disaster Management Plan's ministry-wise matrix, which agency is designated for search and rescue during a railway disaster, working alongside RPF and railway personnel?
- A. Central Board of Direct Taxes
- B. Election Commission of India
- C. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
- D. Ministry of External Affairs
Answer: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
Explanation: NDRF is the designated specialist search and rescue agency for major railway disasters under the NDMP framework, deployed alongside railway resources (RPF, ART, ARMV) and state agencies.
2706. Which document, prepared by each railway zone/division, lays out the specific roles, resources and procedures for responding to accidents within that jurisdiction?
- A. The Right to Information Act
- B. The Railway Board's annual budget speech
- C. Zonal/Divisional Disaster Management Plan
- D. The national census report
Answer: Zonal/Divisional Disaster Management Plan
Explanation: Each railway zone and division prepares its own Disaster Management Plan, detailing roles of RPF, medical teams, ART/ARMV deployment, and coordination protocols with NDRF, state police and district administration for that specific jurisdiction.
2707. Which of the following disasters, though occurring on railway premises, would typically be classified as a 'chemical/industrial' disaster rather than a pure 'transport accident' in India's disaster classification, given the nature of the incident?
- A. A hazardous chemical tanker wagon leaking toxic gas after derailment
- B. A simple signal failure causing a minor delay
- C. A routine track maintenance activity
- D. A ticketless travel enforcement drive
Answer: A hazardous chemical tanker wagon leaking toxic gas after derailment
Explanation: When a rail accident involves hazardous chemical release (like a tanker wagon leak), the incident carries characteristics of both a transport accident and a chemical/industrial disaster, requiring specialized CBRN-trained response (often involving NDRF) beyond standard rail accident protocols.
2708. Under Section 51 of the DM Act 2005, if obstruction of an officer leads to loss of lives or imminent danger, the punishment may extend up to how many years of imprisonment?
- A. Six months
- B. Twenty years
- C. No imprisonment, fine only
- D. Two years
Answer: Two years
Explanation: While the base punishment for obstruction under Section 51 is imprisonment up to one year, it is enhanced to up to two years if the obstruction results in loss of life or imminent danger thereof.
2709. Under Section 60 of the DM Act 2005, no court shall take cognizance of an offence under the Act except on a complaint made by whom?
- A. The National Authority, State Authority, Central Government, State Government, or an officer authorised by them
- B. Only a Member of Parliament
- C. Any private citizen without restriction
- D. Only a foreign national
Answer: The National Authority, State Authority, Central Government, State Government, or an officer authorised by them
Explanation: Section 60 restricts cognizance of offences under the DM Act to complaints made by the National Authority, State Authority, Central/State Government, or an officer authorized by them, ensuring accountability is enforced through designated authorities.
2710. Under Section 56 of the DM Act 2005, which conduct by an officer on whom a duty has been imposed under the Act is punishable with imprisonment up to one year or fine?
- A. Filing an accurate report on time
- B. Taking annual leave with prior approval
- C. Ceasing, refusing or withdrawing from the duties of office without the written permission of the official superior or a lawful excuse
- D. Attending a training programme
Answer: Ceasing, refusing or withdrawing from the duties of office without the written permission of the official superior or a lawful excuse
Explanation: Section 56 punishes an officer who ceases or refuses to perform, or withdraws himself from, the duties of his office, unless he has the express written permission of his official superior or another lawful excuse. Punishment is imprisonment up to one year or fine.
2711. Under Section 55 of the DM Act 2005, if an offence is committed by a Department of the Government, who is deemed guilty along with the Department, unless due diligence is proven?
- A. The head of the Department at the time the offence was committed
- B. Only the Minister-in-charge, regardless of the head of department
- C. No individual is ever held liable, only the department as an abstract entity
- D. Only the lowest-ranked clerk in the department
Answer: The head of the Department at the time the offence was committed
Explanation: Section 55 provides that where an offence under the Act is committed by a government department, the head of that department is deemed guilty unless they prove the offence occurred without their knowledge or despite due diligence.
2712. Under Section 53 of the DM Act 2005, misappropriation of relief materials or funds meant for disaster assistance is an offence punishable with imprisonment up to how many years?
- A. Life imprisonment
- B. One month
- C. Two years
- D. Fifteen years
Answer: Two years
Explanation: Section 53 of the DM Act 2005 prescribes imprisonment up to two years, or fine, or both, for misappropriation of money or materials meant for disaster relief, prevention or mitigation.
2713. Under Section 52 of the DM Act 2005, making a false claim for relief, assistance or compensation is punishable with imprisonment extending up to how many years?
- A. Ten years
- B. Two years
- C. Six months
- D. Twenty years
Answer: Two years
Explanation: Section 52 of the DM Act 2005 prescribes imprisonment up to two years, or fine, or both, for making a false claim for obtaining relief, assistance, repair, reconstruction or other benefits.
2714. What is the primary purpose of the National Disaster Mitigation Fund constituted under Section 47 of the DM Act 2005, as distinct from response-oriented funds?
- A. Financing projects exclusively designed for mitigation of specific hazards, undertaken before a disaster occurs
- B. Paying for post-disaster funerals only
- C. Financing military operations
- D. Paying salaries of central government employees generally
Answer: Financing projects exclusively designed for mitigation of specific hazards, undertaken before a disaster occurs
Explanation: Unlike the response-oriented NDRF/SDRF, the National Disaster Mitigation Fund is meant exclusively for financing pre-disaster mitigation projects that reduce the risk or impact of anticipated hazards.
2715. The allocation of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) between states is generally based on recommendations of which body?
- A. The Union Public Service Commission
- B. The Finance Commission
- C. The Election Commission of India
- D. The National Green Tribunal
Answer: The Finance Commission
Explanation: The Finance Commission, a constitutional body, recommends the formula and quantum for devolution of funds including the SDRF allocation among states based on their disaster risk profile and other criteria.
2716. Which fund, constituted at the state level under Section 48 of the DM Act 2005, is the primary source for meeting expenses for emergency response, relief and rehabilitation within a state?
- A. Prime Minister's National Relief Fund
- B. State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF)
- C. National Defence Fund
- D. Consolidated Fund of India
Answer: State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF)
Explanation: Section 48 of the DM Act 2005 provides for the State Disaster Response Fund, the primary fund available to state governments for emergency response, relief and rehabilitation, supplemented by the National Disaster Response Fund for severe disasters.
2717. Which of the following best describes RPF's legal mandate as relevant to disaster/accident response, distinguishing it from that of the state police (GRP)?
- A. RPF has no legal powers at all during an accident
- B. RPF is solely responsible for train ticketing
- C. RPF is primarily responsible for protection of railway property, passenger area security and railway-specific offences, while GRP (state police) handles general law and order and registers FIRs for crimes on railway premises
- D. RPF and GRP have identical, fully overlapping legal mandates with no distinction
Answer: RPF is primarily responsible for protection of railway property, passenger area security and railway-specific offences, while GRP (state police) handles general law and order and registers FIRs for crimes on railway premises
Explanation: RPF, under the Railway Protection Force Act, is mandated for the security of railway property and passenger area, while the Government Railway Police (GRP), a state police force, handles general law-and-order and FIR registration for crimes on railway premises — both coordinate closely during accident response.
2718. What is one of RPF's key crowd-management responsibilities during and after a major railway accident?
- A. Preventing unauthorized/curious crowds from hampering rescue operations while facilitating access for authorized rescue and medical personnel
- B. Encouraging as many bystanders as possible to enter the accident site
- C. Disbanding all rescue teams to reduce crowding
- D. Selling tickets to onlookers at the accident site
Answer: Preventing unauthorized/curious crowds from hampering rescue operations while facilitating access for authorized rescue and medical personnel
Explanation: RPF's crowd control role at accident sites is to keep unauthorized crowds away from the operational area (preventing hindrance to rescue work and protecting evidence) while ensuring smooth access for authorized rescue, medical and investigation personnel.
2719. During a railway accident response, which railway official typically acts as the on-site incident commander/coordinating authority representing the railway administration?
- A. The Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) or a senior officer designated under the division's disaster management plan
- B. The station master of the nearest unrelated station with no role assigned
- C. A private railway contractor
- D. A junior ticket-checking staff member
Answer: The Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) or a senior officer designated under the division's disaster management plan
Explanation: The Divisional Railway Manager, or a senior officer designated under the Zonal/Divisional Disaster Management Plan, typically coordinates the railway administration's on-site response, working alongside RPF, NDRF, state police and district administration.
2720. In railway disaster management, the concept of 'Golden Hour' most directly relates to which aspect of response?
- A. The hour reserved for VIP visits to the accident site
- B. The critical early time window in which timely medical intervention significantly improves survival chances of trauma victims
- C. The first hour of ticket sales after a train resumes service
- D. The one-hour period allowed for filing an FIR after an accident
Answer: The critical early time window in which timely medical intervention significantly improves survival chances of trauma victims
Explanation: The 'Golden Hour' refers to the critical period immediately following a traumatic injury during which prompt medical treatment drastically increases the chance of survival — this is why rapid ARMV/medical response is emphasized in railway accident protocols.
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