The Supreme Court of India has directed the Centre to frame a policy on disaster management. Background: The court was hearing a petition filed by a group of citizens who had sought relief from the court in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Parties: The petitioners, who were a group of citizens, argued that the Centre should frame a policy on disaster management to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Centre, on the other hand, argued that it was already taking steps to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Legal issues: The main legal issue before the court was whether the Centre was required to frame a policy on disaster management. Court observations: The Supreme Court observed that the Centre was required to frame a policy on disaster management. The court noted that the policy should provide for a coordinated response to disasters and should ensure that relief is provided to those affected by disasters. Significance: The Supreme Court's decision is significant as it directs the Centre to frame a policy on disaster management. The decision is also important as it highlights the need to have a coordinated response to disasters. The court's decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for disaster management in the country.