What happened: MHA describes CAP-based Cell Broadcast Alert System for disaster warnings
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) stated in a Lok Sabha written reply that the Cell Broadcast Alert System for Disaster Warnings uses the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) implemented by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The system is operated through the Integrated Alert System and targets timely, geo-targeted public warnings for disasters with very short lead time.
MHA described a multi-agency operational model where disaster monitoring and forecasting institutions feed warnings into the CAP-based platform, and State authorities authorise and disseminate disaster-specific alerts to citizens through cell broadcast.
MHA also linked timely receipt of warnings and timely dissemination of alerts to reduced disaster-related casualties and improved emergency preparedness.
Background and earlier position: warning institutions + SDMAs + last-mile dissemination
The CAP-based platform integrates five Warning Generating Agencies with the State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) of all States and Union Territories. MHA stated that each Warning Generating Agency and each SDMA is responsible for disaster-specific alerts and their authorisation.
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