type here...
More

    ADB Approves $100 Million Loan for Water Sector Reforms in Sri Lanka

    OWSA Contributor
    -
    0
    ADB Approves $100 Million Loan for Water Sector Reforms in Sri Lanka

    In a bid to boost efficiency and performance within the sector, the program will assist in the development of a climate-resilient project appraisal framework for drinking water investments.

    The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has granted a substantial boost to Sri Lanka’s water supply and sanitation sector, approving a $100 million policy-based loan along with an $800,000 technical assistance grant. This initiative is set to transform the country’s approach to water management, enhancing resilience to climate change and ensuring long-term sustainability.

    The Water Supply and Sanitation Reform Program, structured into two subprograms of $100 million each, aims to revolutionize the delivery of water and sanitation services across Sri Lanka. Subprogram 1 will focus on establishing national policies and strategies, including frameworks for the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB), while Subprogram 2 will drive the implementation of these reforms and guidelines.

    Pedro Almeida, Senior Urban Development Specialist at ADB, emphasized the significance of the program: “Efficient delivery of safe and reliable water supply in Sri Lanka is limited by fragmented water resources management and exacerbated by climate change. This significantly affects the daily life of Sri Lankans — many of whom do not have access to piped water supply. This program will not only strengthen mechanisms to ensure adequate access to safe water but also address governance and sustainability challenges of the sector that will enable the participation of the private sector.”

    Climate-resilient

    Sri Lanka faces longstanding issues in water resources management, including imbalanced allocation between agricultural and drinking water, inadequate climate change consideration in planning, and impacts from unplanned land use and deforestation. The country also grapples with the involvement of multiple agencies at both national and regional levels.

    Subprogram 1 will support the National Water Resources Policy, recently approved by the Prime Minister’s Office, which aims to ensure fair water allocation and sharing. Additionally, it will introduce national policies to enhance access to safe drinking water, promote gender-sensitive and inclusive water service delivery, and develop a climate change roadmap.

    In a bid to boost efficiency and performance within the sector, the program will assist in the development of a climate-resilient project appraisal framework for drinking water investments. It will also enhance the financial sustainability and performance of NWSDB through the implementation of financial sustainability and public-private sector roadmaps, alongside a business efficiency action plan.

    The $800,000 technical assistance grant is an integral component of the program, designed to provide capacity-building and advisory support to the Ministry of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development (MWS) and NWSDB. This grant includes $500,000 from ADB’s Technical Assistance Special Fund and $300,000 from the Water Innovation Trust Fund, part of the Water Financing Partnership Facility administered by ADB.

    Sri Lanka’s Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure, Jeevan Thondaman, hailed the initiative as a milestone achievement. “This program is an important accomplishment in our ongoing efforts to deliver on SDG6, adapt Sri Lanka’s water resources to climate change, and address vulnerabilities in our water infrastructure.”

    ADB, established in 1966, continues to champion efforts towards a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. The bank, owned by 68 member countries, remains steadfast in its mission to eradicate extreme poverty and support sustainable development.

    As Sri Lanka embarks on this transformative journey with ADB’s support, the comprehensive reforms promised by the Water Supply and Sanitation Reform Program are expected to significantly improve water management and accessibility, paving the way for a more resilient future for the island nation.

    India: Union Cabinet Meets – Approves Significant Initiatives

    OWSA Staff
    -
    0
    India: Union Cabinet Meets – Approves Significant Initiatives

    As India embarks on these transformative projects, the focus on both climate resilience and healthcare underscore the need to address pressing issues and foster sustainable development.

    The union cabinet meeting on Wednesday, chaired by prime minister Narendra Modi, unveiled two significant initiatives: Mission Mausam and Expanding Healthcare Coverage for Senior Citizens under Ayushman Bharat.

    Both Mission Mausam and the expansion of Ayushman Bharat – PM-JAY signify two distinct approaches to bolster national resilience – one through advanced climate science and the other through enhanced healthcare coverage for the elderly. While Mission Mausam aims to prepare India for future climate challenges with cutting-edge technology and research, Ayushman Bharat – PM-JAY’s expansion ensures that senior citizens receive crucial healthcare support irrespective of their financial status.

    These initiatives aim to improve the quality of life while also safeguarding vulnerable populations and enhancing national preparedness for future uncertainties.

    Mission Mausam

    The Cabinet approved ‘Mission Mausam,’ a groundbreaking initiative with a budget of Rs. 2,000 crore over the next two years. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Mission Mausam aims to transform India’s capacity to handle weather-related challenges and climate change impacts through advanced scientific research and technology.

    Mission Mausam is designed to revolutionize weather and climate sciences by integrating state-of-the-art observation systems, high-performance computing, and cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. This ambitious program will significantly enhance weather forecasting, climate modeling, and real-time data dissemination, setting new benchmarks for precision in weather predictions.

    A cornerstone of the initiative is the deployment of next-generation radars and satellite systems equipped with advanced sensors. These technologies will work in tandem with high-performance supercomputers to improve atmospheric research and forecasting capabilities. The mission will also introduce improved Earth system models and a GIS-based automated Decision Support System to aid real-time data analysis and dissemination.

    Mission Mausam’s benefits are expected to extend across numerous sectors, including agriculture, disaster management, defense, environment, aviation, water resources, power, tourism, shipping, transport, energy, and health. By enhancing data-driven decision-making, it will support better urban planning, transportation infrastructure, offshore operations, and environmental monitoring.

    The implementation will involve three key institutes: the India Meteorological Department, the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, and the National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting. These institutions will be bolstered by support from other Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) entities and collaboration with national and international research institutions, academia, and industries.

    Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY

    In a parallel move, the Cabinet approved an expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to include health coverage for all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, regardless of their income. This expansion will benefit approximately 4.5 crore families, encompassing around six crore senior citizens.

    Under this initiative, senior citizens will receive a health insurance cover of up to Rs. 5 lakh per year. Those already covered under the scheme will receive an additional top-up cover of Rs. 5 lakh annually, which is separate from the family’s existing coverage. For those not previously covered, the new coverage will be provided on a family basis.

    Senior citizens aged 70 and above, who are currently benefiting from other public health insurance schemes like the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or Ayushman CAPF, have the option to either continue with their existing schemes or switch to AB PM-JAY. Moreover, those under private health insurance or Employees’ State Insurance schemes can also avail themselves of the benefits under AB PM-JAY.

    AB PM-JAY is recognized as the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, offering Rs. 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. Since its inception, the scheme has provided over Rs. 1 lakh crore in health benefits and covered 7.37 crore hospital admissions, with nearly half of the beneficiaries being women.

    The recent expansion aligns with the scheme’s history of growth, which initially began by covering 10.74 crore families. In January 2022, this number was increased to 12 crore families, reflecting India’s population growth. Additionally, the scheme was extended to include 37 lakh ASHAs, AWWs, and AWHs and their families.

    Bangladesh: Reconstituted Commissions Set to Start Work Soon, Announces Yunus

    OWSA Contributor
    -
    0
    Bangladesh: Reconstituted Commissions Set to Start Work Soon, Announces Yunus

    Advisory council members, students, workers, representatives of mass movements, representatives of civil society and political parties will be present in the deliberations and consultation meetings of the commissions.

    Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, Prof Muhammad Yunus, highlighted the importance of electoral system reform on Wednesday, revealing the formation of six new commissions. Each commission will be led by a prominent individual with significant expertise in their respective fields.

    Addressing the nation on the one-month anniversary of the interim government, which was established on August 8, Prof Yunus outlined the newly appointed heads of the Electoral System Reform Commission, Police Administration Reform Commission, Judicial Reform Commission, Anti-Corruption Reform Commission, Public Administration Reform Commission, and Constitution Reform Commission. The other members of these commissions will be selected in consultation with their respective heads.

    “Improving the electoral system is crucial to upholding the people’s right to vote and ensuring their ownership in the process,” Prof Yunus said during his televised address. He emphasized that reforming the police administration, public administration, judiciary, and anti-corruption commission is vital for ensuring free and fair elections, as these institutions are closely linked to the electoral system.

    Constitutional reforms

    Prof Yunus also stressed the need for constitutional reforms to better represent and serve people from all walks of life, reflecting the demands of the July mass uprising. He noted that the fully constituted Election Commission is expected to commence its work on October 1, with a completion timeline of three months.

    “Based on the Commission’s report, the government will engage in consultations with major political parties,” he explained. “In the final stage, we will refine the reform proposals through a three-to-seven-day consultation period involving students, civil society, political party representatives, and government officials.”

    Advisory council members, students, workers, mass movement representatives, civil society members, and political parties will be involved in the deliberations and consultations of these commissions. “We believe this inclusive approach will strengthen the nation and help realize the objectives of the July mass uprising, uniting all in the task of state reconstruction,” Prof Yunus stated.

    He acknowledged the challenges faced during the first month but expressed optimism for progress if the law and order situation remains stable. “We need the cooperation of all citizens – teachers, students, farmers, workers, professionals, businesspeople, and homemakers,” he said. “Our task is difficult, but failure is not an option. We must succeed through collective effort.”

    Image: Wikimedia

    WMO Update predicts 60 per cent chance of La Niña

    OWSA Contributor
    -
    0
    WMO Update predicts 60 per cent chance of La Niña

    Naturally occurring climate events such as La Nina and El Nino events are taking place in the broader context of human-induced climate change, which is increasing global temperatures, exacerbating extreme weather and climate, and impacting seasonal rainfall and temperature patterns.

    There is a 60 per cent chance of La Niña conditions emerging towards the end of this year, according to a new Update from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

    Latest forecasts from WMO Global Producing Centres of Long-Range Forecasts indicate a 55 per cent likelihood of a transition from the current neutral conditions (neither El Niño nor La Niña) to La Nina conditions during September-November 2024. This likelihood increases to 60% from October 2024 to February 2025, with the chance of El Niño redeveloping during this time being negligible.

    La Niña refers to the large-scale cooling of the ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, coupled with changes in the tropical atmospheric circulation, such as winds, pressure and rainfall. The effects of each La Niña event vary depending on its intensity, duration, time of year it develops, and the interaction with other climate drivers. Generally, La Niña produces the opposite climate impacts to El Niño, especially in tropical regions. 

    Climate change

    However, naturally occurring climate events such as La Nina and El Nino events are taking place in the broader context of human-induced climate change, which is increasing global temperatures, exacerbating extreme weather and climate, and impacting seasonal rainfall and temperature patterns.

    WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo highlights that “Since June 2023 we have seen an extended streak of exceptional global land and sea surface temperature. Even if a short-term cooling La Niña event does emerge, it will not change the long-term trajectory of rising global temperatures due to heat-trapping greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.” 

    The past nine years have been the warmest on record even with the cooling influence of a multi-year La Niña from 2020 to early 2023. The 2023-24 El Niño event started emerging in June 2023 and peaked in November 2023 – January 2024 as one of the five strongest on record before dissipating – although some impacts continued. 

    “For the past three months, neutral conditions have prevailed – neither El Niño nor La Niña. But we have still seen widespread extreme weather conditions, including intense heat and devastating rainfall. This is why the Early Warnings for All initiative remains WMO’s top priority. Seasonal forecasts for El Niño and La Niña and the associated impacts on the climate patterns globally are an important tool to inform early warnings and early action,” said Celeste Saulo.

    Maldives Small Island Communities Urge Relocation for Better Access to Essential Services

    OWSA Contributor
    -
    0
    Maldives Small Island Communities Urge Relocation for Better Access to Essential Services

    According to reports, Raiymandhoo lacks a secondary school, compelling students to travel to neighbouring islands for higher education, a journey that is both time-consuming and expensive. Healthcare services on the island are similarly insufficient, with residents often required to travel to larger atolls for even basic medical care.

    Residents of small island atolls in the Maldives are increasingly calling on the government to relocate their communities to larger atolls in a bid to gain access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and improved infrastructure. The issue is particularly pressing for the inhabitants of Raiymandhoo in Meemu Atoll and Hirimaradhoo Atoll, who are facing significant challenges due to the limited resources and facilities available on their current islands.

    In an appeal to the Maldivian government on Wednesday, residents of the Raiymandhoo and Hirimaradhoo communities highlighted the severe limitations imposed by their geographic isolation. Raiymandhoo, a small island with a population of approximately 1,300, has long struggled with inadequate access to educational institutions and medical facilities. Similarly, Hirimaradhoo, home to around 600 people, faces similar hardships. Both communities argue that relocating to larger, more developed atolls would provide them with the opportunities and services that are currently out of reach.

    The residents’ pleas are not without merit. According to reports, Raiymandhoo lacks a secondary school, compelling students to travel to neighbouring islands for higher education, a journey that is both time-consuming and expensive. Healthcare services on the island are similarly insufficient, with residents often required to travel to larger atolls for even basic medical care. This lack of infrastructure has led to delays in treatment and a general decline in the quality of life for the islanders.

    Hirimaradhoo faces analogous issues. The atoll’s small size and sparse population mean that there are limited educational and healthcare facilities available. Children and adults alike must travel to other islands for secondary education and medical services, creating additional financial and logistical burdens.

    Slow to address needs

    The Maldives, an archipelago consisting of 26 atolls and over 1,000 islands, is known for its stunning natural beauty but also faces significant challenges related to infrastructure and service delivery, particularly on its smaller islands. The government has acknowledged these challenges but has been slow to address the needs of smaller communities due to budgetary constraints and logistical difficulties.

    In light of these challenges, local leaders from Raiymandhoo and Hirimaradhoo have proposed a relocation plan that would see their communities moved to larger, more developed atolls. They argue that such a move would not only improve access to education and healthcare but also foster economic opportunities and improve the overall quality of life for island residents.

    Supporters of the relocation plan point out that similar initiatives have been successfully implemented in other countries facing comparable challenges. For example, in Antigua and Barbuda, the government has undertaken similar relocation efforts to address infrastructure deficits in smaller island communities. The success of these initiatives in providing better access to services and improving living conditions serves as a model for potential solutions in the Maldives.

    The Maldivian government has yet to make a formal decision regarding the proposed relocations. However, the issue has garnered increasing attention from policymakers and advocacy groups, who are now exploring potential solutions to address the needs of these isolated communities. Discussions are ongoing about the feasibility of such a plan, including considerations related to costs, logistical challenges, and the potential impact on local cultures and economies.

    In the meantime, residents of Raiymandhoo and Hirimaradhoo continue to advocate for their cause, hoping that their voices will lead to tangible changes that will improve their access to essential services and enhance their overall quality of life. As the Maldives navigates its development challenges, the plight of these small island communities serves as a poignant reminder of the need for equitable access to resources and opportunities across the archipelago.

    Sri Lanka to Launch Blended Financing Facility to Support Smallholder Farmers

    OWSA Contributor
    -
    0
    Sri Lanka to Launch Blended Financing Facility to Support Smallholder Farmers

    Additionally, the Sri Lanka Banks’ Association has expressed its commitment to supporting the initiative, emphasizing the role of financial institutions in facilitating access to capital and resources for the agricultural sector.

    In a groundbreaking move to bolster Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce together with the Sustainable Development Council of Sri Lanka and the Sri Lanka Banks’ Association announced plans to establish a Blended Financing Facility (BFF) aimed at supporting smallholder farmers across the country. The initiative seeks to provide crucial financial resources and technological access to approximately 1.65 million farmers.

    The announcement underscores a significant effort to address the current economic challenges faced by Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector. The BFF is designed to enhance the effectiveness of development finance by attracting private investment, thereby creating a multiplier effect that benefits the broader agricultural economy.

    “The creation of the BFF is a strategic response to the pressing needs of our farming community,” said a spokesperson from the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. “By pooling resources and expertise from various partners, we aim to foster an environment that not only supports immediate financial needs but also paves the way for sustainable growth and development.”

    The facility will initially operate through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), which will consolidate resources such as financial support and technical assistance from partner organizations. This approach is expected to mobilize significant capital for business development investments within Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector.

    Innovative approach

    According to the Chamber, the BFF will focus on enhancing resilience and inclusivity within the agri-food sector. The facility aims to provide comprehensive support to smallholder farmers, addressing challenges such as access to capital, technology, and market opportunities. The long-term vision includes the potential expansion of the BFF model to other critical sectors, such as energy, as markets evolve and mature.

    The Sustainable Development Council of Sri Lanka (SDC) highlights the importance of this initiative in creating a more robust agricultural sector. “The BFF represents a crucial step towards integrating financial and technical support systems for farmers,” stated an SDC representative. “Our goal is to build a resilient agricultural sector that can withstand economic fluctuations and contribute to sustainable development.”

    Additionally, the Sri Lanka Banks’ Association has expressed its commitment to supporting the initiative, emphasizing the role of financial institutions in facilitating access to capital and resources for the agricultural sector.

    The BFF’s innovative approach is expected to set a precedent for similar initiatives in other high-impact sectors, thereby contributing to the broader goals of economic stability and sustainable development in Sri Lanka.

    Sri Lanka Seeks BRICS Membership and New Development Bank Access

    OWSA Contributor
    -
    0
    Sri Lanka Seeks BRICS Membership and New Development Bank Access

    Sri Lanka’s potential membership in BRICS and the NDB aligns with its broader strategy of integrating into global trade frameworks. The country has been actively pursuing international trade agreements, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, to enhance its economic standing.

    Sri Lanka’s Cabinet of Ministers has greenlit a proposal for the country to seek membership in the BRICS organization and to establish a new development bank under its framework, according to Cabinet spokesperson, Minister Bandula Gunawardana.

    This move follows a comprehensive report from an officer’s committee that evaluated the proposal’s potential benefits and drawbacks.

    The BRICS group, initially formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is a significant intergovernmental organization aimed at fostering economic collaboration among emerging markets. The bloc recently expanded its membership to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE during its Johannesburg summit in August 2023. This expansion, which has seen BRICS+ accounting for 37.3 per cent of global GDP, has sparked debates regarding its growing international influence.

    Minister Gunawardana emphasized the economic benefits of joining BRICS. “By becoming a member of an organization with economic giants such as China, India, and Brazil, and establishing a development bank, Sri Lanka’s businesses will have access to more seed capital,” he stated. This capital infusion could provide significant opportunities for Sri Lankan enterprises and accelerate the country’s economic development.

    Sri Lanka’s potential membership in BRICS and the NDB aligns with its broader strategy of integrating into global trade frameworks. The country has been actively pursuing international trade agreements, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), to enhance its economic standing.

    Leveraging NDB resources

    The New Development Bank (NDB), established by the BRICS countries in 2015, is designed to support infrastructure and sustainable development projects in emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs). The bank aims to mobilize resources and provide financial backing for projects that foster economic growth and environmental sustainability. Its role is crucial in bridging the financing gap in these regions.

    The NDB’s mandate to fund infrastructure and sustainable projects is expected to provide Sri Lanka with valuable resources. According to Article 2 of the NDB’s Agreement, membership is open to any United Nations member, whether they are borrowing or non-borrowing members, thus making Sri Lanka a suitable candidate.

    In a recent briefing to the European Parliament, an EU associated think tank highlighted that while the new members contribute only around 4 per cent to BRICS’ cumulative GDP, their inclusion is more about increasing the group’s global influence and strengthening the voice of developing nations in international organizations such as the United Nations and the World Trade Organization.

    As Sri Lanka moves forward with its application, the focus will be on leveraging BRICS membership and NDB resources to foster economic growth and enhance its role on the global stage. The country’s participation in BRICS could mark a significant step towards integrating more deeply into the global economic landscape and addressing its development needs.

    India’s Tiger Conservation: Balancing Relocations with Community Engagement

    OWSA Contributor
    -
    0
    India’s Tiger Conservation: Balancing Relocations with Community Engagement

    India’s tiger conservation journey highlights the need for a nuanced approach that balances wildlife protection with human rights, the authors write for The Conversation.
    As Project Tiger continues to evolve, integrating community engagement into conservation strategies promises a more sustainable and equitable path forward for both tigers and the people who share their habitat.

    Dhanapal Govindarajulu, Divya Gupta, and Ghazala Shahabuddin

    India’s tiger conservation efforts, deeply rooted in the legacy of British colonialism and its aftermath, reflect a complex interplay between wildlife preservation and human livelihoods. During British rule, more than 65,000 tigers were slaughtered for their skins between 1860 and 1950. Although independence brought hope for the Bengal tiger, which remains one of the world’s largest big cat species, the situation continued to deteriorate. The tiger population faced severe threats from ongoing hunting and habitat loss, as vast swathes of forest were converted into farmland.

    In response to the crisis, India launched Project Tiger in 1972, a pioneering initiative aimed at reversing the decline of the tiger population. At the time, fewer than 2,000 tigers remained in the wild. Project Tiger has become one of the longest-running conservation programs globally, focusing on the creation of tiger reserves from existing protected areas such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. However, this effort has often involved the forced relocation of local communities, sparking a significant debate over its effectiveness and ethical implications.

    The Challenge of Relocation

    The concept behind Project Tiger is to create reserves with core zones where human activities like grazing livestock, hunting, and collecting forest products are strictly prohibited. Surrounding these core areas are buffer zones where regulated activities are permitted. By 2005, 27 tiger reserves had been established, each ranging from 500 to 2,500 square kilometers. During the first three decades of the project, approximately 3,000 families were relocated from these core zones. Between 2005 and 2023, the number surged to about 22,000 families.

    In some instances, the relocations have had dire consequences. For example, in the Sariska tiger reserve in Rajasthan, families resettled in 1976-77 were provided with land that was poorly suited for agriculture. Disillusioned, many returned to the reserve. Similarly, Gujjar pastoralists displaced from Rajaji tiger reserve in 2012 were ill-equipped to transition from livestock grazing to farming. Although they received water pumps and electricity, their lack of agricultural experience made the adjustment challenging.

    Conversely, in the Bhadra tiger reserve in Karnataka, relocation efforts were relatively successful as displaced individuals were given quality agricultural land and had prior farming experience. However, most relocated individuals ended up working in tea and coffee plantations or factories, often facing economic hardships.

    Disconnect Between Relocation and Tiger Conservation

    Despite extensive relocations, India’s tiger population continued to decline, hitting a low of fewer than 1,500 in 2006. The disappearance of tigers from Sariska and Panna tiger reserves in 2004 and 2007, respectively, highlighted the limitations of relocation as a standalone conservation strategy.

    In response, a 2005 government task force, comprising tiger biologists and social scientists, discovered that illegal activities, such as poaching and mining, persisted within many reserves. The task force also noted that having local communities engaged in conservation efforts was crucial for reducing illegal hunting and forest fires.

    Communities that were not relocated, such as the Soliga tribes in the Biligiri Ranganathaswamy temple tiger reserve and residents of the Parambikulam tiger reserve, have often fared better. The Soliga tribes opted to stay and engaged in removing invasive plant species and preventing illegal activities. In Parambikulam, non-relocated communities have found alternative livelihoods as tour guides and forest guards, while also earning from the sale of forest products under the supervision of forest officials.

    Towards a Balanced Approach

    The successes of community-based conservation models in these reserves suggest that collaboration between local communities and conservationists can be more effective than enforced relocations alone. The recovery of India’s tiger population to over 3,000 by 2022 underscores the potential for success when conservation strategies incorporate local engagement and address the needs of both wildlife and people.

    A promising strategy is to designate over 38 million hectares of forest, suitable tiger habitat outside existing reserves, as wildlife corridors. Such corridors would facilitate tiger movement between reserves, reducing the risks of inbreeding and local extinction. Additionally, studies indicate that many villagers would support further relocations if they were assured of improved access to essential services such as water, healthcare, and education.

    To enhance the effectiveness of Project Tiger, it is crucial to allocate a portion of the annual budget—currently around $30 million (£22.7 million)—toward ensuring fair relocation processes and promoting community-based conservation. This approach would not only support the long-term recovery of tigers but also foster harmonious coexistence between wildlife and local populations.

    This feature is based on research and analysis by Dhanapal Govindarajulu, Divya Gupta, and Ghazala Shahabuddin, as reported by The Conversation.

    Images: Hippopx

    Half Of All ADB Lending Will Go To Climate Finance by 2030

    OWSA Contributor
    -
    0
    Half Of All ADB Lending Will Go To Climate Finance by 2030

    By setting ambitious climate finance targets and expanding its private sector engagements, ADB is positioning itself as a leading force in the global fight against climate change and development disparities.

    The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has unveiled its new strategy to intensify its efforts in addressing climate change, marking a transformative shift in its approach to development finance across Asia and the Pacific. The newly approved Strategy 2030 Midterm Review reflects ADB’s renewed commitment to combating the climate crisis.

    Strategy 2030 Midterm Review has introduced an ambitious target for climate finance to constitute 50 per cent of its annual committed financing by 2030.

    ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa highlighted the urgency of the bank’s updated strategy, noting that recent cascading shocks have disrupted years of progress in the region.

    “Cascading shocks have derailed years of development progress in Asia and the Pacific. ADB is updating its vision, expanding its financial capacity, and modernizing its operational approach to help its members respond to these unprecedented challenges, including the accelerating climate crisis, public health crises, and economic and fiscal vulnerability,” Asakawa said.

    “Our support is needed now more than ever. This new road map sets an unprecedented level of ambition and focus for ADB’s work and will ensure we meet the moment through bold action and transformative impact.”

    The Asian Development Bank’s Strategy 2030 Midterm Review marks a bold and decisive step towards a more sustainable and resilient future for Asia and the Pacific. By setting ambitious climate finance targets and expanding its private sector engagements, ADB is positioning itself as a leading force in the global fight against climate change and development disparities. As the region navigates a rapidly changing landscape, ADB’s enhanced strategy provides a vital blueprint for progress and transformation.

    With its updated strategy, the bank is poised to play a central role in addressing the region’s most pressing challenges and contributing to global development goals.

    A Pivotal Commitment

    The Strategy 2030 Midterm Review signifies a pivotal moment for ADB, underscoring a strategic pivot towards more robust climate action. The bank has pledged that by 2030, 50% of its total annual committed financing will be dedicated to climate finance. This ambitious goal aligns with ADB’s broader target to mobilize over $100 billion in cumulative climate finance from 2019 to 2030.

    The increased focus on climate finance reflects the growing urgency to address the region’s severe environmental challenges, including escalating climate risks, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation. ADB’s strategy emphasizes that 75% of its committed operations, on a rolling three-year average, will support climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts by 2030.

    Expanding Private Sector Engagement

    In addition to its climate finance commitment, ADB is intensifying its support for private sector development. The bank aims to triple its private sector financing to $13 billion by 2030. This includes a targeted $4.5 billion in direct private capital mobilization. Furthermore, ADB plans for 40% of its sovereign operations to contribute meaningfully to private sector development within the same timeframe.

    By significantly boosting its private sector engagement, ADB aims to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and enhance the sustainability of its investments. This effort is particularly crucial for driving innovation and efficiency in infrastructure projects and other development initiatives across the region.

    Financial Capacity; Operational Efficiency

    The ADB’s strategic overhaul is underpinned by substantial financial and operational reforms. In September 2023, ADB approved capital management reforms designed to unlock $100 billion in new funding capacity over the next decade. These reforms increase the bank’s annual new commitments capacity to over $36 billion—an approximate 40% increase from previous levels.

    Additionally, a significant overhaul of ADB’s operating model, initiated in June 2023, aims to enhance the bank’s responsiveness and efficiency. The new model is expected to strengthen ADB’s role as a climate bank, bolster private sector development, and modernize its operational processes to better serve its developing member countries (DMCs).

    Addressing Key Development Challenges

    ADB’s updated strategy encompasses a broader range of development priorities, reflecting the complexity of the region’s needs. The strategy focuses on five critical areas:

    • Climate Action: Scaling up efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change, including a significant increase in climate finance.
    • Private Sector Development: Expanding private sector operations and mobilizing private capital to support development goals.
    • Regional Cooperation and Public Goods: Enhancing regional connectivity and cooperation to address cross-border challenges.
    • Digital Transformation: Leveraging technology to improve development outcomes and operational efficiency.
    • Resilience and Empowerment: Building resilience against economic and environmental shocks and empowering vulnerable communities.

    ADB’s approach will also prioritize support for the poorest and most vulnerable countries, including fragile states and small island developing states. This differentiated strategy ensures that ADB’s interventions are tailored to local needs and contexts, enhancing their effectiveness and impact.

    Future Directions and Implementation

    To operationalize its Strategy 2030, ADB will develop detailed operational plans for each of its seven priority areas. This will include refining country partnership strategies, aligning annual work plans with strategic priorities, and strengthening monitoring and evaluation frameworks.

    The “One ADB” approach will be pivotal in implementing the new strategy, fostering greater collaboration and integration across the bank’s various divisions to deliver comprehensive and effective solutions.

    Union Health Secretary Unveils Annual Health Dynamics Report for 2022-23

    OWSA Staff
    -
    0
    Union Health Secretary Unveils Annual Health Dynamics Report for 2022-23

    A key feature of this year’s report is its comparative analysis, which evaluates changes in health infrastructure and manpower from 2005 to 2023, and more specifically from 2022 to 2023. This comparative data sheds light on both progress and existing gaps within the healthcare system.

    Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra today released the “Health Dynamics of India (Infrastructure and Human Resources) 2022-23,” a comprehensive annual report formerly known as “Rural Health Statistics.” This publication, which has been a cornerstone of health sector data since 1992, offers critical insights into the state of healthcare infrastructure and human resources across India.

    In his address, Chandra emphasized the significance of the report in shaping health policy and improving processes. “The annual publication is a valuable document furnishing much-needed information on manpower and infrastructure within the National Health Mission (NHM),” he stated. “It is instrumental in policy-making, enhancing processes, and problem-solving.” He highlighted the report’s role in providing a cross-state analysis of healthcare availability and deficiencies, which is crucial for understanding state-specific needs, prioritizing areas of intervention, and formulating targeted health policies and campaigns.

    The report is divided into two main sections: the first provides an overarching view of India’s healthcare system, including State and Union Territory profiles through maps and charts. The second section, which is more detailed, spans nine areas focusing on health facilities, manpower, and demographic indicators. This structure allows for a comprehensive examination of both the broader and more granular aspects of healthcare infrastructure and human resources.

    According to the latest data as of March 31, 2023, India’s healthcare infrastructure includes 1,69,615 Sub-Centres (SCs), 31,882 Primary Health Centres (PHCs), 6,359 Community Health Centres (CHCs), 1,340 Sub-Divisional/District Hospitals (SDHs), 714 District Hospitals (DHs), and 362 Medical Colleges (MCs). This extensive network is supported by a considerable workforce, comprising 2,39,911 health workers at SCs, 40,583 doctors and medical officers at PHCs, 26,280 specialists and medical officers at CHCs, and 45,027 doctors and specialists at SDHs and DHs. Additionally, there are 47,932 staff nurses at PHCs, 51,059 nursing staff at CHCs, and 1,35,793 paramedical staff at SDHs and DHs.

    Resource for stakeholders

    A key feature of this year’s report is its comparative analysis, which evaluates changes in health infrastructure and manpower from 2005 to 2023, and more specifically from 2022 to 2023. This comparative data sheds light on both progress and existing gaps within the healthcare system. The report also provides district-wise details and focuses on the disparities in healthcare infrastructure and manpower across rural, urban, and tribal areas, thereby aiding in targeted policy planning and resource allocation.

    Union Health Secretary Chandra also underscored the need for integrating the Health Management Information System (HMIS) Portal with the Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) and other ministry portals. He pointed out that such integration would help alleviate the workload of health functionaries and ensure timely data uploads and meticulous analysis.

    Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Mission Director (NHM), along with senior officials from the Union Health Ministry, were present at the launch event. The publication serves as a crucial resource for stakeholders in the healthcare sector, offering insights essential for effective planning, monitoring, and management of health services.

    The “Health Dynamics of India (Infrastructure and Human Resources) 2022-23” is available for access on the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare website. The document is designed to guide policymakers, health administrators, and planners in optimizing health service delivery and addressing infrastructure needs across the country.

    For further details, the report can be accessed directly through the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare’s documents section: https://mohfw.gov.in/.

    1...565758...206Page 57 of 206
    Global Governance

    The Fallout from Losing a UN Job

    I wasn’t just de-linked from my role—I was cut off from my health insurance, my professional identity, my community, and the safety net I thought I’d built after a lifetime of service.
    Finance and Economy

    World Economy Will Slow Sharply, Despite US-China Tariff De-Escalation, Says Fitch

    There have been downward pressures on US financial asset prices as reflected in equity market volatility, a weakening dollar and higher long-term 30-year government bond yields.
    Climate change

    New Projections Show Extreme Glacier Loss Already at 2°C

    Staying close to 1.5°C on the other hand preserves at least some glacier ice in all regions, even Scandinavia, with 20-30 per cent remaining in the four most sensitive regions; and 40-45 per cent in the Himalayas and Caucuses; stressing the growing urgency of the 1.5°C temperature goal and rapid decarbonization to achieve it.

    Editor Picks

    Climate Change

    Hot Topics

    About OWSA

    OWSA aims to be the place global citizens turn to for news and views concerning human development from across SouthAsia – the kind of news untouched by the mainstream media. We do not sell fear.

    Follow Us

    © 2021 All Rights Reserved. www.owsa.in