Role of local self-government in disaster risk reduction

The evolution of disaster management in India has shifted from a reactive colonial-era relief model to a proactive, "zero-casualty" paradigm institutionalized by the Disaster Management Act of 2005. Despite this legal framework, a significant "policy-practice gap" remains at the grassroots level. This study employs a qualitative systematic review and critical policy analysis to examine how Local Self-Governments (LSGs) can effectively operationalize decentralized mandates. Findings indicate that, while LSGs are statutorily designated as "first responders," their effectiveness is constrained by financial bottlenecks, overlapping jurisdictions, and "elite capture" within local committees. The research highlights the necessity of transitioning to an "adaptive governance" framework that integrates indigenous knowledge systems with modern technological tools such as GIS and the Disaster Management Ontology (DMO). Ultimately, the study argues that resilience-building requires moving beyond technocratic solutions toward inclusive, polycentric governance that empowers local bodies not just as responders, but as proactive agents of risk reduction.