Lightning of thunder stroke is a natural phenomenon and prevention of its occurrence is beyond human control. A good number of people, nearly 300 persons succumb to death due to lightning in the State every year. Since this is not included in the list of natural disasters under Calamity Relief Fund (CRF) appropriate assistance i.e. ex-gratia cannot be given to the poor people for their death as in case of death due to other calamities like flood, fire, cyclone and earthquake etc. This issue has been repeatedly raised before the Government of India and Finance Commissions for consideration i.e. inclusion of “lightning” in the list of natural disasters so that relief can be administered to the poor people out of CRF. However, in due consideration of the gravity of the situation, the State Government have enhanced the ex-gratia to the next of kin of the deceased in the case of death due to lightning from Rs.10,000/- to Rs.50,000/- w.e.f. 01.06.2007. During the visit of Hon’ble members of 13^th Finance Commission, Government of India in February, 2009 the State Government put forth the demand to include the “lightning” in the list of natural calamity under CRF.

            The death toll due to lightning in the State since 2001 is mentioned below: