The article ‘Insensitive India’ is written by Dr. Anu Kapur, Professor, Department of Geography, Delhi School of Economics, University of Delhi and published in esteemed Journal, Economic and Political Weekly, vol. 40, no. 42, 2005, PP. 4551-4560. This article can be said to be an offshoot of the book “Vulnerable India” written by Dr. Anu Kapur in 2010, five years after publication of this article. Dr. Kapur has produced a magnificent work ‘Insensitive India’ which is remarkably different from some other works on this topic. Unlike earlier works done on this topic, Professor Kapur has covered a detailed account of reasons and causes of the vulnerable situation of India due to disasters and indifferent approach of concerned authorities towards them, specifically, accusing the weak state response and infrastructure that have caused many lives to die that should have not happened.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Indifferent approach towards disasters in India
- Physiography a factor of disaster
- The Grim Reality
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This article, "Insensitive India," by Dr. Anu Kapur, critically examines the state of disaster management in India, highlighting the lack of sensitivity and effective response to natural disasters. The author argues that India's vulnerability to disasters is exacerbated by a system that often blames nature rather than addressing human factors and inadequate infrastructure. The article seeks to raise awareness about the shortcomings in disaster management and advocate for a more proactive and holistic approach.
- The indifferent approach of Indian authorities towards disasters.
- The role of human factors in exacerbating disaster vulnerability.
- The need for a more comprehensive and inclusive disaster management strategy.
- The importance of public awareness and community involvement in disaster preparedness.
- The critical analysis of the shortcomings of existing institutions and authorities involved in disaster management.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This section introduces the article and its author, Dr. Anu Kapur, highlighting the key arguments presented in the article. The author criticizes the indifferent attitude of Indian authorities towards disasters and their failure to adequately address the vulnerable situation of the country.
- Indifferent approach towards disasters in India: This section delves into the historical background of disaster management institutions in India, highlighting their shortcomings and lack of effectiveness. Dr. Kapur criticizes the minimal concern and dedication shown by these authorities towards disaster prevention and mitigation, arguing that they prioritize blaming natural phenomena rather than addressing human responsibility.
- Physiography a factor of disaster: This section examines the common practice of blaming India's geographical features for its vulnerability to disasters. Dr. Kapur challenges this perspective, arguing that while India's geography plays a role, the main cause of disaster vulnerability lies in human negligence and inadequate infrastructure. She highlights the need for a more holistic approach that considers socioeconomic factors and human intervention.
- The Grim Reality: This section presents a stark reality of disaster management in India through data, maps, and diagrams. The author emphasizes the lack of progress in mitigating disaster effects, despite some government efforts. The grim situation is further highlighted by the lack of significant change in the state of disasters despite the declaration of the International Decade of Disaster Reduction (1990-2000).
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The article "Insensitive India" focuses on the critical analysis of disaster management in India, with key themes revolving around vulnerability, human factors, institutional shortcomings, and the need for a more comprehensive approach. Key terms include disaster management, disaster prevention, natural disasters, human negligence, infrastructure development, public awareness, and community involvement.
- Quote paper
- Vivek Tripathi (Author), 2015, On the Article "Insensitive India" by Dr. Anu Kapur, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/300359