The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has greenlit the continuation of the “Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP)” for the period of 2021-2026. This program aims to tackle critical issues related to flood control and anti-erosion measures, with a particular focus on border areas.
Comprising two main components, the FMBAP includes the Flood Management Programme (FMP) and the River Management and Border Areas (RMBA). The government has allocated a substantial total outlay of ₹4,100 crore for the next five years, spanning from 2021-22 to 2025-26, in line with the 15th Finance Commission period.
Under the Flood Management Programme, a significant portion of the allocated funds, amounting to Rs. 2,940 crore, will be earmarked for providing central assistance to state governments. This assistance will support critical works related to flood control, anti-erosion measures, drainage development, and anti-sea erosion, among other initiatives. The funding pattern will follow a ratio of 90% (Centre) to 10% (State) for Special Category States (comprising the 8 North-Eastern States and Hilly States of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the UT of Jammu & Kashmir), while it will be 60% (Centre) to 40% (State) for General/Non-Special Category States.
In addition to the Flood Management Programme, the River Management and Border Areas (RMBA) component of the FMBAP will receive an allocation of Rs. 1,160 crore. This segment will focus on flood control and anti-erosion works along common border rivers with neighboring countries. Activities such as hydrological observations, flood forecasting, and investigation and pre-construction activities of joint water resources projects on common border rivers will be undertaken with 100% central assistance.
While the primary responsibility for flood management rests with the state governments, the Union government recognizes the need to supplement their efforts in this area. By encouraging the adoption of modern technology and innovative approaches, the government aims to enhance flood management practices across the country.
The decision to continue the FMBAP comes at a crucial time, as the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including floods, have increased in recent years. The likely impact of climate change further exacerbates this situation, necessitating proactive measures to address flooding issues in terms of extent, intensity, and frequency.
Moreover, the scheme includes provisions to incentivize states that implement flood plain zoning, which is recognized as an effective non-structural measure for flood management. By encouraging states to adopt such measures, the program aims to enhance resilience to floods and minimize the damage caused by these natural disasters.
The approval of the continuation of the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by floods and erosion in border regions. Through strategic allocation of funds and implementation of innovative measures, the program seeks to strengthen flood management capabilities and mitigate the impact of flooding on communities and infrastructure.