Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction Officer

Organizational Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in India has been dedicated to eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities since 1951. Working across all states, UNDP collaborates with government and diverse actors to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The current Country Programme (2023-2027) focuses on strengthening institutions, enhancing economic opportunities, and promoting climate-smart, resilient development. A key initiative is the District-Level Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DiDRR) Project, addressing the disproportionate impact of disasters on persons with disabilities and strengthening their inclusion in disaster risk reduction policies and practices.

Job Purpose

This role serves to advance disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction (DiDRR) at state, district, and community levels in India. The Officer will provide crucial technical advisory, coordination, and capacity-development support, anchoring DiDRR work within state institutions. This involves analyzing existing DRR architectures, strengthening policies and plans to integrate disability inclusion, and developing practical tools for preparedness and planning. The position aims to ensure that persons with disabilities are meaningfully included in all stages of disaster risk reduction, from preparedness to recovery, contributing to more resilient communities and effective implementation of the Sendai Framework and national disability rights legislation.

Responsibilities

The Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction Officer will conduct situational analyses of disability inclusion within state DRR frameworks, mapping institutional and OPD capacities, and reviewing disaster management plans to develop actionable recommendations. They will provide technical support to integrate disability inclusion into national and state policies, plans, and SOPs for preparedness, response, and recovery. The role involves developing and applying key technical tools for inclusive planning, such as checklists and data synthesis, and supporting community-level preparedness through inclusive micro-planning and accessibility assessments. The Officer will design and deliver capacity-building activities for stakeholders, prepare a state capacity-building roadmap, and support the development of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for scaled implementation. Additionally, they will document best practices and lessons learned, contribute to programme monitoring and learning processes, and prepare a final assignment report detailing achievements and recommendations for sustainability and scale-up.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience is required in areas such as disability inclusion, disaster risk reduction and management, climate change adaptation, humanitarian preparedness, resilience, or sustainable development. Demonstrated experience working with government institutions (especially disaster management or social sector departments) or Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) is essential. Experience in facilitating multi-stakeholder consultations and capacity-building activities is also necessary. Familiarity with India's disaster management architecture and inclusive training is desirable.

Skills

Key competencies include professionalism, integrity, teamwork, planning and organizing, and effective communication. The role requires flexibility, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. Specific values include applying a rights-based approach, understanding intersectionality, championing the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities ('Nothing About Us Without Us'), and demonstrating cultural and social sensitivity. Expertise in development programmes, community development, and crisis response is also important.

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