UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Non-structural measures focus on policies, planning tools, information systems and community capacity rather than physical constructions. Land-use zoning can keep settlements away from high-risk zones, early warning systems alert people to impending hazards and awareness programmes help communities respond appropriately. Together these measures reduce disaster impacts without necessarily altering physical structures.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because dams and embankments are classic examples of structural measures that physically modify the environment to control hazards.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect as retrofitting buildings with stronger designs is again a structural intervention aimed at enhancing physical resilience.

Option C:
Option C is correct since zoning, warnings and awareness operate through rules, information and behaviour change, making them non-structural tools in disaster mitigation.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because cyclone shelters are physical constructions that provide safe refuge and are therefore structural measures.