The Classification of Lightning as a Natural Disaster in India

1. Why is lightning not classified as a natural disaster in India?

The Union government considers lightning deaths largely preventable through timely alerts, awareness, and education. Since India already operates one of the world’s most advanced lightning early warning systems, the national focus remains on prevention and preparedness rather than post-event compensation.

2. What is the impact of classifying something as a natural disaster?

If lightning were declared a natural disaster, families of victims would become eligible for financial aid from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), which is 75% funded by the Central Government. Such classification would also allow for the allocation of dedicated disaster management resources for lightning-related safety and infrastructure.

3. Which states have demanded its inclusion?

Bihar and West Bengal have officially urged the Central Government to recognise lightning as a natural disaster so that affected families can access compensation through the SDRF.

4. What disasters are currently covered under the SDRF?

The SDRF currently covers cyclone, drought, earthquake, fire, flood, tsunami, hailstorm, landslide, avalanche, cloudburst, pest attack, frost, and cold wave.

5. How does India’s lightning early warning system work?

India’s advanced lightning forecasting system can predict lightning activity up to five days in advance and provide real-time alerts within three hours of a strike. Warnings are disseminated through mobile apps, SMS alerts, and local communication networks, enabling timely protective measures.

6. Why does the Centre focus on prevention over compensation?

Officials emphasize that monetary compensation does not address the core issue. Instead, preventive actions—such as awareness drives, the construction of lightning-safe shelters, and widespread early warnings—can reduce fatalities and protect communities before strikes occur.

7. What are the benefits of keeping lightning outside the disaster list?

• Encourages proactive community safety rather than reliance on post-disaster compensation.
• Ensures SDRF funds remain available for disasters that are less predictable and harder to prevent.
• Promotes long-term investment in preventive infrastructure like lightning arresters in schools, markets, and public areas.

8. Who is most at risk from lightning in India?

Agricultural workers and people working in open fields are at the highest risk, particularly during the monsoon and pre-monsoon months when lightning activity peaks.