Central team arrives in Andhra Pradesh to assess Cyclone Arnab damage

A seven-member central team arrived in Andhra Pradesh on 31 October 2026 to assess damage caused by Cyclone Arnab. Led by Chittaranjan Das, a joint secretary in the Union Home Ministry, the team was scheduled to begin field visits that day.

Districts and damage assessment

The team planned to inspect crop losses and damage to roads, electricity infrastructure and other public assets in Konaseema, Kakinada, East Godavari and West Godavari districts. After receiving a briefing, its members were to divide into two groups for field inspections.

The team will submit its assessment report to the central government after completing the visits.

Important Facts for Exams

• IMD wind-speed classification: India Meteorological Department categories distinguish a cyclonic storm (34–47 knots) from a severe cyclonic storm (48–63 knots), using maximum sustained wind speed.
• Central disaster-assistance assessment: A state seeking National Disaster Response Fund assistance submits a memorandum; an Inter-Ministerial Central Team assesses damage, and its report informs the Centre’s decision on additional relief.
• Crop-loss relief threshold: For SDRF agricultural input-subsidy assistance, crop damage must generally reach at least 33 per cent; the payment is relief, not full indemnification.
• District disaster authorities: The Disaster Management Act 2005 provides for a District Disaster Management Authority in every district, chaired by the Collector, District Magistrate or Deputy Commissioner.