Why in the News?

India has introduced Akshvi, a unique e-digital wallet aimed at assisting in disaster relief and improving the accuracy of loss reporting.

About Akshvi: The E-Digital Wallet for Disasters

Akshvi (Aapda Kshati Vivaran) is a unique e-digital wallet developed by SEEDS India to assist disaster-stricken communities in India.
The platform allows people to self-report economic and non-economic losses during climate-induced events.
It bridges the data gap in disaster reporting and enhancing relief distribution and climate resilience.

Self-Reporting Mechanism: It enables affected communities to log their losses during disasters such as floods, droughts, heatwaves, and landslides, ensuring accurate and timely assessments.
Localized Data Collection: The platform collects hyperlocal data, which is vital for tailoring disaster management strategies and relief efforts to the specific needs of affected communities.
User-Friendly Interface:
- IVRS: Allows voice recording of losses.
- WhatsApp Chatbot: For tech-savvy users to log data.
- Assisted Data Entry: Available for those needing help with information entry.
Traceability: The platform tracks the progress of relief, ensuring that aid reaches the affected households transparently.
Integration with Government Schemes: Akshvi’s data links to social welfare schemes and index-based insurance programs, improving disaster response efforts.

[UPSC 2004] In which one of the following countries did hundreds of people die in 2004 due to Tropical Storm Jeanne?

Options: (a) Colombia (b) Haiti (c) Sudan (d) Ghana