Network for Information, Response, And Preparedness Activities on Disaster (NIRAPAD) is a knowledge-based disaster risk management network comprising humanitarian NGOs in Bangladesh. NIRAPAD was established in 1997 with funding from USAID and was initially created by CARE Bangladesh. NIRAPAD obtained registration from the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms (RJSC) under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860. In 2008, it became an independent entity separate from CARE. NIRAPAD received its registration from the NGO Affairs Bureau in Bangladesh on May 19, 2010. NIRAPAD is a member of important organizations such as the Humanitarian Coordination Task Team (HCTT), Sphere Community Bangladesh (SCB), and CHS Alliance. Its focus is on promoting disaster-related quality and accountability initiatives, as well as supporting localisation agenda in humanitarian aid and actions. Additionally, as a technical co-lead of Localisation Technical Working Group (LTWG), NIRAPAD is committed to its role in helping people in need. As well, it supports various stakeholders in enhancing their capabilities in preparedness, anticipatory actions, response, recovery, disaster risk reduction, and climate change adaptation.

NIRAPAD actively contributes to the disaster risk management sector by generating and disseminating knowledge, providing technical support, and fostering partnerships with humanitarian agencies. Its operational framework revolves around three core areas: Innovate (introducing new concepts and tools), Inspire (encouraging innovative thinking), and Connect (strengthening collaboration at national and global levels to enhance resilience actions).

Specialties of NIRAPAD

• Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR):

  • Focuses on minimizing disaster risks through proactive measures, community engagement, and capacity building.

• Climate Change Adaptation (CCA):

  • Supports initiatives that help communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.

• Knowledge Generation and Management:

  • Engages in research and dissemination of information related to disaster risks and management practices.

• Technical Support:

  • Provides technical assistance to various stakeholders, enhancing their capabilities in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

• Collaboration and Partnership:

  • Works with over 100 local and international humanitarian agencies to strengthen disaster response efforts.

• Quality and Accountability Standards:

  • Promotes adherence to quality and accountability standards in humanitarian actions, such as the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS) and Sphere standards.

Key Aspects of Quality

• Knowledge-Based Approach: NIRAPAD emphasizes knowledge generation and management to reduce disaster-related information gaps.

• Technical Support: It provides technical assistance in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA), enhancing the capabilities of development organizations and communities.

• Collaboration and Partnership: NIRAPAD collaborates with over 100 local and international humanitarian agencies, promoting a coordinated approach to disaster management.

• Accountability: Ensuring accountability at all levels is a core mandate, promoting a responsible humanitarian system.

• Cross-Cutting Issues: NIRAPAD integrates good governance, gender equality, and environmental concerns into its activities.

• Quality Standards: The organization promotes adherence to quality and accountability standards such as the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS) and Sphere minimum standards.

• Localization Agenda: NIRAPAD supports the localization of humanitarian aid, empowering local actors to take a leading role in disaster response

• Mission: "To improve ideas and promote collaboration efforts for saving lives and livelihoods of the vulnerable and exposed population in Bangladesh".

• Vision: While the vision statement isn't explicitly mentioned, NIRAPAD aims to reduce disaster risk and strengthen disaster risk management abilities within development organizations and communities

Here are the awards and recognitions associated with NIRAPAD's work:

• Ekushey Padak: Ilias Kanchan, the founder of Nirapad Sarak Chai, has been awarded the Ekushey Padak, which is the second-highest civilian award in Bangladesh, for his social work and contributions to road safety.

• National Road Safety Day: The Government of Bangladesh has declared October 22nd as the National Road Safety Day, marking the day of Ilias Kanchan's wife's death, which led to the formation of Nirapad Sarak Chai.

• Recognition at the United Nations: The role of Nirapad Sarak Chai has been lauded at the United Nations for its efforts in improving road safety.

• Sher-e-Bangla Award: Ilias Kanchan has received the Sher-e-Bangla Award, among numerous other awards from various organizations