Disaster Risk Index (DRI) ( UPSC Prelims)

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News Context

The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh has called upon the 16th Finance Commission to revise the Disaster Risk Index (DRI) to better represent the distinct vulnerabilities faced by hill states.
  ● Measurement Tool: This is a composite measure that quantifies the level of risk a region encounters from multiple hazards and serves as a metric in disaster risk financing. It is designed to:  
        ○ evaluate the likelihood and potential severity of disasters,
        ○ capture levels of vulnerability and exposure,
        ○ support evidence-based decision-making, and
        ○ guide the allocation of resources for disaster mitigation and preparedness.
  ● Genesis: The 15th Finance Commission (2021–26) officially adopted the DRI to guide disaster funding. It incorporated the state's DRI score into a formula for distributing NDRF and state contingency funds.  
  ● Components: The DRI uses the probability of hazards (score of 70) and vulnerability (score of 30) to calculate a composite score.