The DROP statement is used to delete or remove database objects, such as tables, indexes, views, and other structures. Once an object is dropped, it is permanently removed from the database, including all data and related properties.

The DROP statement deletes database objects and frees up associated storage. It is typically used when:

• An object is no longer needed.
• Redesign requires replacing a table or view.
• Data cleanup requires removal of unused structures.

The DROP statement is irreversible, means that once an object is dropped, all data and settings for that object are lost permanently unless a backup is available.

Syntax -

DROP TABLE database_object;

• database_object: The name of the database object you wish to delete from the database.

Examples - DROP TABLE

DROP TABLE EMPLOYEE;

This command removes the EMPLOYEE table from the database, including all data and definitions associated with it. After this command, the table will no longer exist in DB2.

Using DROP Statements in a COBOL Program

We can't able to use the DROP statement in COBOL-DB2 program as it is a DDL statement. Only administrators and other users who has ADIM authority can use the DROP statement in DB2 tools (SPUFI or QMF).

DROP can be used on the below list of objects -

DROP ALIAS
DROP DATABASE
DROP FUNCTION
DROP INDEX
DROP PACKAGE
DROP PROCEDURE 
DROP ROLE
DROP SEQUENCE
DROP STOGROUP
DROP SYNONYM
DROP TABLE
DROP TABLESPACE
DROP TRIGGER
DROP TYPE
DROP VIEW

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