The Association of International NGOs in Nepal (AIN) has reaffirmed its commitment to support disaster-affected areas in the country. During an emergency response meeting held yesterday at the Social Welfare Council (SWC), the Minister of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens (MoWCSC), along with SWC board members and senior officials, discussed urgent action points to aid those in need.
The Minister emphasized the importance of prioritizing the most severely affected regions and urged AIN and its members to extend their support. AIN provided updates on its ongoing disaster response efforts, including work being done on the ground and key developments from their Technical Group on Disaster Management (TGDM) and Provincial Chapter meetings.
One of the key issues raised was the need for swift approval of response proposals. In response, SWC assured AIN that international NGOs (INGOs) could utilize the 1% emergency fund from their Project Agreement without needing additional approval, even if operating in different geographical areas.
INGOs only need to inform SWC of their activities. SWC also committed to fast-tracking the process to amend up to 15% of project funds for disaster response. AIN requested these decisions in writing for proper implementation and documentation.
Furthermore, SWC plans to issue a public release detailing the support required. AIN will provide regular updates on the efforts of its members every three days, which will be disseminated through press meetings by the Minister.
AIN expressed gratitude to all those who participated in the meeting, and the organization reiterated its commitment to working collaboratively to ease the suffering of disaster-affected communities.