Introduction –

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction was developed to guide efforts on
disaster risk reduction in the period between 2015 and 2030. The framework was adopted
during the Third World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, which was held in Sendai,
Japan, from 14 to 18 March 2015. It is the outcome of stakeholder consultations initiated in
March 2012 and inter-governmental negotiations from July 2014 to March 2015, supported
by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction at the request of the UN General
Assembly. As in the case of its predecessor, the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA), the
Sendai Framework recognizes that Member States have the primary responsibility to prevent
and reduce disaster risk.
The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR ) is a global strategy
adopted by the United Nations in 2015 to reduce disaster risks and build resilience. Named
after Sendai, Japan, where it was adopted, this framework aims to guide countries in their
efforts to prevent and reduce losses caused by natural and human-made disasters. The
Sendai Framework replaced the previous Hyogo Framework and emphasizes reducing risks
at both local and national levels. It takes a proactive approach, aiming to reduce the risks and
impacts of disasters rather than merely responding to them. Through its targets, the
framework focuses on empowering communities and ensuring sustainable development that
is resilient to disasters.

o The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) was endorsed by the
Member States of the United Nations Organisation at the Third World Conference on
Disaster Risk Reduction in March 2015, held in Sendai, Japan.
o This agreement is voluntary and does not impose binding obligations on the member
states.
o The primary responsibility of the Member States under the framework is to mitigate
the identified disaster risks.
o The framework spans a period of 15 years, from 2015 to 2030.
o The United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) is
responsible for implementing, supporting, and reviewing the Sendai Framework.
o The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction succeeded the Hyogo Framework
for Action (2005-2015), a comprehensive international agreement on disaster risk
reduction. The Hyogo framework played a pivotal role in mobilizing various
stakeholders, including the commercial sector, NGOs, scientists, and governments, to
make strides towards disaster risk reduction.
o Implementing Organisation: United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction
(UNDRR) is tasked to support the implementation, follow-up and review of the
Sendai Framework.
 o Role in 2030 Agenda: The Sendai Framework works hand in hand with the other
2030 Agenda agreements, including The Paris Agreement (2015), the Addis
Ababa Action Agenda on Financing for Development (2015), the New Urban
Agenda, and ultimately the Sustainable Development Goals.

Objective of Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction -

o The SFDRR aims to significantly reduce disaster risk and disaster losses in terms of
lives, livelihoods and health; and in the environmental, cultural, social, and physical-
economic assets of people, communities, and businesses over the next 15 years.
o The framework consists of a set of standards, a comprehensive framework with
achievable targets, and a legally based instrument for disaster risk reduction.
o The framework calls for shared responsibility among stakeholders, including the
private sector, the government, and other parties.
o It emphasizes concerns related to human health and well-being that are common to
disaster risk reduction, climate change, and sustainable development.

Priorities for Action in Sendai Framework -

The Sendai Framework has four main priorities for action. Each priority serves as a pillar,
guiding nations toward effective disaster risk reduction:
1. Understanding Disaster Risk: This priority emphasizes the need to identify and
analyze the factors that contribute to disaster risks, such as environmental, social,
and economic vulnerabilities. By understanding the nature and causes of risks,
governments and communities can develop more effective mitigation strategies.
2. Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance to Manage Disaster Risk : Effective
governance structures are crucial for managing disaster risks. The framework
encourages countries to establish clear policies, legislation, and institutional
frameworks that can reduce and manage disaster risks effectively.
3. Investing in Disaster Risk Reduction for Resilience: Investment in risk
reduction is essential for creating resilient communities. This includes not only
 physical infrastructure but also socio-cultural resilience through education and
community involvement in disaster preparedness programs.
4. Enhancing Disaster Preparedness for Effective Response and to "Build
Back Better" in Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction: This pillar
emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure, policies, and community
resilience after a disaster. Instead of merely restoring damaged facilities,
communities are encouraged to rebuild stronger and more resilient structures.

Targets in Sendai Framework

The Sendai Framework has seven global targets, which aim to reduce disaster impacts by
2030. These targets are quantifiable goals that provide a clear path for nations to assess their
progress in disaster risk reduction. These 7 targets are:
1. Reduce Global Disaster Mortality By 2030: By aiming to lower the number of
lives lost in disasters, this target highlights the importance of improved risk
awareness.
2. Substantially Reduce the Number of Affected People: This target aims to
minimize the number of people globally by 2030 who suffer from the effects of
disasters, including injuries, loss of livelihoods, and displacement.
3. Reduce Direct Economic Loss in Relation to GDP : The framework seeks to
reduce the economic impacts of disasters by promoting resilient infrastructure
and risk-sensitive investments.
4. Reduce Disaster Damage to Critical Infrastructure and Disruption of Basic
Services: Protect essential facilities like schools, hospitals, and roads from
disaster damage.
5. Increase the Number of Countries with Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies :
This target encourages all countries to adopt and implement national and local
disaster risk reduction strategies.
6. Enhance International Cooperation: Cooperation between nations is essential
for sharing resources, knowledge, and support to manage disaster risks
effectively.
7. Increase Access to Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems : Ensure that
communities have early warning systems for various types of disasters to take
preventive measures.

Sendai Framework Indicators

To assess the progress in disaster risk reduction, the Sendai Framework uses a set of 38
indicators. Each target has associated indicators, which help measure outcomes and guide
countries in adjusting their strategies. These include metrics like the number of casualties,
economic losses, etc. that help countries evaluate whether they are on track with the Sendai
Framework’s goals.

Sendai Framework Monitor

The Sendai Framework Monitor is an online tool developed by the United Nations Office for
Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). This tool allows countries to track, analyze, and report
their progress on the framework's targets and all 38 indicators . The Sendai Framework
Monitor promotes transparency and accountability, making it easier to assess global progress
in disaster risk reduction.

India’s Commitment to Sendai Framework -

India has demonstrated a strong commitment to implementing the Sendai Framework for
Disaster Risk Reduction. The government has integrated disaster risk reduction into national
policies and is working to build a resilient society through various initiatives:
• National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP) : India’s NDMP aligns with the
Sendai Framework, focusing on prevention, mitigation, and preparedness across
sectors.
• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): India has established the
NDMA to coordinate disaster risk reduction activities and create comprehensive
disaster management plans.
• Investments in Early Warning Systems: India has made significant
advancements in developing early warning systems, particularly for cyclones,
floods, and tsunamis.
• Disaster Resilient Infrastructure: India is collaborating with other countries to
develop resilient infrastructure through the Coalition for Disaster Resilient
Infrastructure (CDRI).
• Community-Based Disaster Preparedness: India promotes community-based
approaches, ensuring that disaster risk reduction efforts are inclusive and reach
vulnerable populations.
• One Nation One Scheme for Disaster Management, 2018: This initiative is
designed to offer financial assistance to states for a comprehensive range of
disaster management activities.
India's initiatives align with the priorities and targets of the Sendai Framework, showcasing
the country’s commitment to reducing disaster risks and building a safer, more resilient
nation.

Conclusion -

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction outlines a comprehensive and ambitious
set of targets to address global challenges related to disaster risk. With a focus on reducing
mortality, the number of affected people, economic losses, and damage to critical
infrastructure, the framework emphasizes the importance of enhancing resilience and
cooperation at both national and international levels. By promoting strategies, early warning
systems, and risk information accessibility, the Sendai Framework aims to create a more
resilient and prepared global community in the face of disasters. The success of the
framework hinges on sustained efforts, effective collaboration, and timely implementation to
achieve its objectives by the specified timelines.