It is pleasing to see how the Central Government and its multiple agencies have responded to the disaster in Nepal. There can be no better way to convey India’s concern and sensitivity towards its neighbours than actions such as these which have received national approval and applause. No doubt, the recent experiences in the Uttarakhand and Kashmir floods, Orissa cyclone and the mass evacuation from Yemen’s war zone have added richly to our institutional expertise in handling unpredictable situations. However, it is the leadership at the centre which has made a major difference. Officials are learning to function and take decisions when information is initially limited and gathers momentum with time, setting forth new challenges that require instant and effective response.