INDIA needs a better coordinated GO - NGO system for disaster management
Sphere India’s Annual Learning and Planning Workshop 2023-24 will Highlight insights and strategies for Enhanced Disaster Management in India
New Delhi : As India continues to face a diverse range of natural and man-made disasters, the 2023-24 Annual Learning and Planning Report emphasises the urgent need for updated and inclusive disaster management strategies. The workshop, spearheaded by Sphere India in collaboration with National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), Integrated Centre for Adaptation, DRR and Sustainability, IIT-R- GNEC, Greater Noida
and other key partners, outlines the challenges and opportunities in improving India's disaster response and resilience.
Background :
India's vulnerability to disasters, exacerbated by climate change, has led to significant losses in life, property, and ecosystems. The recent pre-consultation on Relief Norms, Standards, and Logistics revealed that current relief mechanisms are outdated, focusing predominantly on cash compensation for recovery rather than immediate relief. The existing norms often neglect individuals in informal shelters and marginalised groups, highlighting a critical need for inclusivity in disaster management plans.
Workshop Overview :
A consultative workshop, scheduled for June 25-26, 2024, in New Delhi, aims to address these gaps by engaging various stakeholders at both national and sub-national levels.
Day 1 : The focus will be on Relief Standards and Logistics Hub. Discussions will examine current standards and logistics systems, identifying gaps and strategies for improvement. A key outcome will be the establishment of district-level logistics and coordination hubs to ensure effective and timely delivery of relief.
Day 2 : The emphasis will shift to Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), resilience building, and the use of data for Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEAL). The translated version of the Core Humanitarian Standards will also be launched. The key outcome will be enhanced DRR strategies, robust accountability, and MEAL systems integration for better disaster preparedness and response.
Objectives and Expected Outputs :
The workshop aims to foster collaborative planning and innovative strategies to strengthen disaster response and resilience efforts. Key objectives include multistakeholder consultations, joint planning with state-level agencies, and documenting challenges and accomplishments from 2023. Expected outputs include a comprehensive summary of achievements, a framework for district-level logistics hubs, and documented best practices for preparedness and response.
Participants :
The workshop will bring together representatives from NDMA, NIDM, Sphere India, State IAG Conveners, SDMA and DDMA representatives, as well as stakeholders from UN agencies, NGOs, CSRs, academic institutions, youth groups, and faith-based organisations.
The Annual Learning and Planning workshop 2023-24 underscores the critical need for a robust and agile disaster management system in India, with a much stronger GO-NGO coordination system. As the frequency and severity of disasters increase, enhanced coordination and updated relief standards are essential to mitigate immediate impacts and build long-term resilience.
