Sphere India - URS Piloting URS in 3 States

• Piloting URS in 3 States

USR in Orissa • 3 Rounds of meetings with the IAG • Sphere core group has been formed within the IAG • Realization to formalize the group working through a secretariat • NGO mapping and Assessment formats • GIS work and Puri district • Documenting collective experiences( Audio-Video)

URS in Bihar • Two rounds of meeting held • Formation of IAG (Inter Agency Group) - to develop a coordinated approach • HELPLINE BIHAR FLOOD would be an essential member of the state IAG and would carry out its mandate during emergencies (i.e. GO-NGO interface and situation reports) • The IAG platform in the state could form the foundation for a State Level NGO Task Force in the near future • Compilation of information on NGO mapping • Inputs on Common Assessment formats • Oxfam will host the next IAG meeting on 25th May 2007 • Inviting Secretary, Disaster Management (Bihar Govt) to the next IAG meeting • Each organization to make a presentation for 10 minutes on their work (during IAG meetings) • Sphere URS to do moderation of the e-group for the IAG (http://groups.google.com/group/bihar-IAG)

USR in Assam • Two rounds of meetings ( post/ pre) • Finalization on Group Concept Paper( Aims and objectives)-submission to Govt. • Formation of a Core Group ( 7 organizations) • Strategy for Sphere Sensitization in the State ( trainings, IEC, Sphere handbook translation) • Linkages with NGO representative of ADMA (Assam Disaster Management Authority) • Review and inputs on Assam Relief Manual • Strategy for Panchayat level implementation of relief standards Work prior to the monsoon season • Ngo mapping and GIS outputs for the three states • Roll out of IEC materials • Collection of Feedback on Common assessment formats and consensus building • Sphere trainings in Assam and Bihar • Preparing for the flooding ( link and flow between state and national groups)