It is very heartening to know the release of the First News Letter of Sphere India- the National Coalition of Humanitarian Agencies (NCHA) in the New Year. 

In many ways Sphere India is a trend setter in promoting Q&A (quality and accountability). It is the first of its kind in the world to have been able to create an inclusive humanitarian platform at a country level. Though it is predominantly a platform of the NGOs, it has with it other key humanitarian players like the UN Agencies, Red Cross and the Government. This is based on the core belief that at the time of crisis it is the duty paramount for the humanitarian workers to function in coordination with other players be it government or non government  so as to be most effective in delivering the best possible service to the affected community. This country level experience is now being taken to form state and district level humanitarian platforms. Through this News Letter I wish to appeal to my co-workers in the humanitarian sector to put their best foot forward in helping to build such inclusive humanitarian platforms in all the states and districts of India. The spirit behind this coalition building is to function as neutral and professional entity guided by the humanitarian charter and code of conduct to ensure entitlements of the affected community.

Many research studies have indicated that working on disaster risk prevention and mitigation is most cost effective hence desirable. A rupee used on disaster risk prevention and mitigation saves as much as four to ten rupees on disaster response. The two key fundamental steps towards effective risk prevention and mitigation are (1) Main streaming of risk management in to the development planning and management, (2) Capacity building of individuals and institutions across board. It is necessary for all of us in the government, non government and the corporate sector to become conscious of people and planet around us and ensure our actions in a manner that remains sensitive to their needs and aspirations. I take this opportunity to appeal  to the leaders of all concerned organizations to ensure clear strategy and dedicated resource for these two fundamental steps towards risk prevention and mitigation.

With these words I wish this News Letter begin to serve the stakeholders in building a disaster resilient society. Certainly I feel privileged to write this message for my friends and colleagues in the humanitarian community who believe in the spirit of Sphere movement. At the same time I wish to draw the attention of all stakeholders for the fact  "PEOPLE FIRST" and all that each of them do must be sensitive to the needs and aspirations of people.

My very best wishes for a Prosperous disaster free New Year.