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Joint Virtual Program Explores Civil Society Organizations' Role in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management

September 23, 2020- A virtual program titled "Roles of Civil Society Organizations in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management" was successfully organized on September 23, 2020, by DPNet-Nepal, DiMaNN, and NGO Federation. The event took place on the occasion of the 41st Social Service Day and was chaired by Mr. Surya Bahadur Thapa, Chairperson of DPNet-Nepal and DiMaNN. The Chief Guest for the event was Hon. Parbat Gurung, Minister for Women, Children, and Senior Citizens.

The program witnessed the participation of esteemed guests, including Dr. Ganga Lal Tuladhar, Former Education Minister and DRRM expert, Mr. Anil Pokhrel, Executive Chief of NDRRMA, Dr. Chandra Bahadur Shrestha, Member of NRA, Dr. Padam Prasad Khatiwada, Vice Chairperson of SWC, Mr. Jeet Ram Lama, Chairperson of NGO Federation, and Mr. Achyut Luitel, Chairperson of AIN.

The event featured presentations from Mr. Surya Narayan Shrestha, Executive Director of NSET, and Mr. Bishnu Timilsina, General Secretary of DiMaNN, along with insightful discussions on disaster risk reduction and management.

The program aimed to address several key concerns in the field of disaster management, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach among all sectors and stakeholders. The role of civil society organizations (CSOs) was highlighted, emphasizing their contribution to policy advocacy, capacity building, and community awareness.

During the program, Minister Hon. Parbat Gurung acknowledged the need for proactive measures in disaster management, particularly in resettling vulnerable communities and reducing disaster risks. He stressed the importance of informing and involving community members to ensure their safety and emphasized the role of CSOs in achieving effective disaster risk reduction and management.

Dr. Ganga Lal Tuladhar underscored the significance of legal frameworks and the need for honest and transparent efforts to save lives. He called for the collective responsibility of government agencies, CSOs, and private sectors in disaster risk reduction.

Mr. Anil Pokhrel shared the latest disaster data and emphasized the need for solidarity among government agencies, CSOs, and private sectors. He stressed the importance of risk information dissemination and called for collaboration in supporting local authorities and integrating risk information.

Dr. Chandra B. Shrestha presented the role of CSOs in disaster risk reduction and management, highlighting the designated scope of work and the need for coordination with government bodies. Mr. Surya Narayan Shrestha presented on earthquake risk management and emphasized the importance of reducing risks through measures such as building resilience and innovative funding mechanisms.

Mr. Bishnu Timilsina focused on CSOs' perspectives, discussing their roles in policy advocacy, disaster governance, and sustainable resource management. He emphasized the need for coordination, communication, and a common goal among CSOs and government agencies.

The program concluded with Mr. Surya Bahadur Thapa's closing remarks, emphasizing the importance of implementing legal documents and conducting self-evaluations. He called for support towards NDRRMA and encouraged collaborative efforts for effective disaster risk reduction and management in Nepal.

The program received active participation from 101 representatives of government agencies, I/NGOs, UN agencies, and CSOs showcasing the commitment of various stakeholders towards building resilience and reducing disaster risks.

The event was jointly organized by DPNet-Nepal, DiMaNN, and NGO Federation, with technical support from Atullya Foundation. The organizers expressed their gratitude to all the guests, and participants.