The Supreme Court of India has ordered the government to frame a national policy on disaster management, which will provide a framework for responding to natural disasters. Background: The case originated from a petition filed by a non-governmental organization, which sought to highlight the inadequacies of the existing disaster management framework in India. Parties: The petitioners argued that the existing framework is inadequate and that a national policy is necessary to ensure effective disaster management. The respondents contended that the existing framework is sufficient and that a national policy is not necessary. Legal issues: The primary issue before the court was whether the government has a constitutional obligation to frame a national policy on disaster management. Court observations: The Supreme Court observed that the government has a constitutional obligation to protect the lives and properties of citizens, and that a national policy on disaster management is necessary to fulfill this obligation. Significance: The judgment has significant implications for disaster management in India, particularly in the context of responding to natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and cyclones.