In comparison to log frame-based project management approaches commonly used in the humanitarian sector, an innovation pilot requires much greater flexibility so that changes can be made according to the evidence that presents itself. A Seattle, Wash.-based rural development organization that has a branch focused on improving land rights in India was recently honored with the 2015 Hilton Humanitarian Prize by the Conrad N. In 2007, under the Disaster Preparedness Programme of the European Commission for Humanitarian Assistance (DIPECHO I), AKAH India supported by the Aga Khan Foundation (UK) implemented a 15-month project to enhance the disaster resilience of communities through school safety. Chapters, the organization is also a force domestically, working on a wide array of projects in cities big and small. Its flagship Open Architecture Network (newly rebranded as “Worldchanging,” and still in transition) is an open-source platform intended to facilitate sharing of information on humanitarian design projects.
Our program model in India has been designed to focus on three initiatives: providing educational programs for children to help them rise above poverty level, preserving ancient culture and wisdom, and providing support for villagers dealing with natural disasters.
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Natural Disaster Relief
International humanitarian efforts are a vital part of the work of the Himalayan Institute, and our service has gone beyond the established projects we have in India, Mexico, and Cameroon. In addition to these projects, the Himalayan Institute has provided disaster relief to rural areas in North India and saved thousands of lives.
Himalayan Flood Disaster Relief
From June 14–17, 2013, torrential monsoon rains and a massive water eruption from the Chorabari Glacier led to devastating flash floods and landslides across the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, North India. Thousands of homes and structures, along with roads and bridges, were washed away, stranding over 100,000 villagers and pilgrims from around India.
The Disaster
The epicenter of this disaster was the ancient sacred shrine of Kedarnath, which was virtually destroyed by the floods and ensuing landslide. Beyond Kedarnath, a slew of neighboring sacred shrines saw utter devastation, including Badrinath, Joshimath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and the Valley of Flowers region.
Many of the affected regions in the Himalayas have historical significance to the Himalayan Institute, its founder, and its members, who immediately felt called to action. In a short period, funds were raised that supported thousands in need through medical relief efforts and reconstruction aid. The Himalayan Institute raised over $20,000 to help support the victims of this natural disaster. Thank you for your support!
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The Bank has contributed some amount for conducting health camps and disaster relief programs
India 2015 Mac Humanitarian Projects
‘Axis Sahaayata’ initiative was launched by Axis Sahyog during Kerala floods to provide disaster relief to the impacted population; the project provided direct relief to 425 flood-affected families in four regions. In July 2018, the State of Kerala faced widespread flooding and large scale destruction of life and property due to heavy rainfall. Notwithstanding the massive relief operations, there were still families stranded at difficult to reach locations. Axis Sahyog, the Bank’s microfinance unit, under the Rural Lending team, which has 32 operating branches in the state, launched project ‘Axis Sahaayata’ for providing immediate disaster relief to those unable to access government relief’s operation.
India 2015 Mac Humanitarian Project Manager
In the first phase of the initiative, the Bank provided direct relief to 425 flood-affected families in Kottayam, Alappuzha, Palai and Vaikom areas, providing need-based relief items with Bank’s employees supporting relief agencies in evacuation of people. During August 2018, when floods hit the state again, the entire microfinance team in the field supported evacuation and extending relief works to approximately 2,220 families, including providing school bags to children from five government schools.