The document defines disasters as sudden calamitous events caused by natural or man-made factors that cause great damage and disruption. It discusses the types of natural disasters like floods, cyclones, droughts and earthquakes, as well as man-made disasters like fires, epidemics, pollution and wars. The effects of disasters include completely disrupting daily life and negatively impacting emergency systems. India is prone to various disasters due to its geography, and key players in disaster management include communities, NGOs, emergency response organizations, and government agencies. Disaster management involves prevention, mitigation, preparation, response and recovery efforts.