BHAKARI JULY UPDATE

Emergency Response activities focused on drought response, with 22 Cash for Work Schemes completed out of 24, involving 1,111 participants, including 65 labor-poor households receiving unconditional cash transfers. The schemes provided short-term employment through repair and maintenance of community infrastructures, including irrigation canals, upgrading foot trails, and developing community schools. To adapt to the government's restrictions on unconditional cash transfers, the program introduced commodity value vouchers, Shock Responsive Social Protection, and NFRI distribution into emergency response programming. Commodity value vouchers will support communities with electronic cards that can be exchanged for essential commodities at local markets. The program will conduct a needs and market assessment to identify local vendors with essential goods and services and analyze the supply chain of essential commodities. Simulation of Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA) was conducted virtually to test program systems, processes, tools, and efficient decision-making. The simulation supported program and operation staff in having enhanced clarity on roles and responsibilities for an effective and timely CVA-based response. Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) activities included the provision of Light, Search, and Rescue (LSAR) tools and equipment to 81 communities, increasing disaster preparedness and response capacity. Initial Rapid Assessment (IRA) training was conducted in three districts, focusing on IRA tools and processes to collect and submit information using the IRA digital platform. Early Warning System (EWS) and Early Warning Information training was conducted for 116 EWS Task Force members, who have been receiving early warning system information and disseminating it to their respective communities. Disaster Preparedness and Response Plans (DPRPs) were finalized in four districts, with technical support from BHAKARI. Structural Mitigation Measures and Plantation Works were completed in 21 sites, with 25 schemes ongoing in all six districts. SBCC and IEC materials dissemination was conducted through a door-to-door campaign, distributing materials to 11,242 households. Standard Operating Procedures (SoP) for Disaster Management Funds were drafted for 15 Palikas through virtual consultation and close coordination with LDMCs/Palikas. Integrated Agriculture and Nutrition activities included the formation of 15 new farmers' groups in Surkhet, with 372 farmers oriented on BHAKARI's agriculture intervention. Capacity building training was conducted for 100 farmers on NTFP production, harvest, and post-harvest handling, and small-scale vegetable production using the kitchen garden approach. Sensitization of groups on Gender Equality, Social Inclusion (GESI) was conducted through a joint sensitization workshop, focusing on leadership, governance, and social audit.