Priority Framework for Action Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management in Agriculture

Priority Framework for Action iii 2011 – 2020 PRioRity FRAMewoRk FoR ACtion Government of nepal Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MoAC) April 2011 CliMAte ChAnGe ADAPtAtion AnD DisAsteR Risk MAnAGeMent in AGRiCultuRe CliMAte ChAnGe ADAPtAtion AnD DisAsteR Risk MAnAGeMent in AGRiCultuRe 2011 – 2020 Priority Framework For action climate change adaPtation and disaster risk management in agriculture government of nepal ministry of agriculture and cooperatives (moac) April 2011 ii Priority Framework for Action Priority Framework for Action Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management in Agriculture Publisher: Government of Nepal Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives Kathmandu, Nepal Copyright: April 2011 Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives Government of Nepal Prepared under the Fao technical assistance to the government of nepal (TCP/NEP/3201 (D) and UNJP/NEP/OO5/UNJ) All rights reserved. Reproduction and dissemination of material in this information product for educational or other non-commercial purposes are authorized without any prior written permission from the copyright holders provided the source is fully acknowledged. Reproduction of material in this information product for resale or other commercial purposes is prohibited without written permission of the copyright holders. Priority Framework for Action iii Food production systems in Nepal are highly vulnerable to increasing climate variability and change. Agriculture production is constrained by altered frequency, timing and magnitude of climate variables such as precipitation and temperature. High rates of snow and glacial melting, frequent floods and droughts, heat waves, and increased incidence of pests and diseases are already causing widespread damage and loss to agricultural sector in Nepal. Systematic efforts are needed to improve sustain ability of the food production systems and ecosystem resilience under changing climatic conditions. Ad dressing climate related risks and uncertainties in agriculture and food security require development of an integrated framework for the sector, and identification of priorities in line with other national programs and strategies. The Priority Framework for Action (PFA) is a begin ning of a long journey to address the impacts of cli mate change and extreme climate events in various sub sectors of agriculture in Nepal. This document explicitly integrates the priorities of NAPA and the National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management, which opens a multiple avenues for technical cooper ation to implement the immediate actions of climate change adaptation and disaster risk management. The Framework considers integration of climate change adaptation and disaster preparedness into Nepal’s agricultural policy, programs and plans as one of the priorities. The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives is seriously considering these priorities and committed to implement disaster preparedness and adaptation actions to address the needs of the country. nandan kumar datta Minister Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives Foreword iv Priority Framework for Action Priority Framework for Action v nepal has been frequently hit by climate variability and natural disasters of hydro-meteorological origin. Floods, landslides, intense rains, hailstorms, droughts, cold and heat waves, pest and diseases are regular phenomenon in the country. Such climate-re lated events have put fragile agricultural eco-systems at risk. Impacts of climate change and related extreme events on agriculture often lead to a situation of food insecurity affecting most the poor and marginalized peoples, including women and children, with its ulti mate repercussion on the nation’s economic growth. The impacts are therefore a question of primary concern, as they directly impinge upon the objec tives of sustainable development. The Government of Nepal, in particular the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC), is dedicating the strong efforts to counterbalance the impacts. Recent studies relate increasing frequency and in tensity of climate related disasters to global warming and climate change. Projections and future scenarios of climate seem to be harboring a worsening of cli matic conditions in the Himalayan region, which may imply an even more frequent occurrence of climate related extremes and detrimental impacts on food production. However, by adopting right measures and changing the type of interventions, it is possible to adapt effectively to the challenges posed by climate change. This warrants a comprehensive strategy and priority actions for the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC) to devise the access to resources and to deliver need-based services to farm ing communities. The needs and solutions proposed in this priority framework are clearly in line with the national level programs and strategies such as National Adaptation Program of Action (NAPA) and the National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management (NSDRM). In the framework, important lessons learnt in the field works are considered suggesting core activities to support farming communities in climate change and disaster risks management. Also suggested is a fundamental shift in approach from re active emergency response to pro-active climate risk management and disaster preparedness approach. Such shift in approach requires technical, logistic, analytical and institutional strengthening as major areas of the sector’s interventions. The framework will be instrumental in enhancing coordination and collaboration among the Government Departments, non-governmental organizations and development partners. Strengthening climate change and disaster risk management units in the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC), Department of Agricul ture (DOA), Department of Livestock Services (DLS) and Nepal Agriculture Research Council are some of the notable priorities. On behalf of the Project Steering Committee, I would like to express my appreciation to Food and Agricul ture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) for technical assistance through the Technical Coopera tion Program (TCP) and United Nation Development Program (UNDP) for their contribution through a FAO-UNDP joint program. My appreciations are also due to Dr. Hari Dahal in the Gender Equity and Environment Division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperative having the project(s) coordinated effectively. nathu Prasad chaudhary Secretary Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives PreFace vi Priority Framework for Action Priority Framework for Action vii the Priority Framework for Action (PFA) to strengthen capacities for climate change adapta tion and disaster risk management in agriculture sec tor was prepared through wider consultations among stakeholders and development partners. Formula tion of the framework was coordinated by Gender Equity and Environment Division in the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives with active participa tion by DOA, DOLS, NARC, FAO, UNDP, Practical Action and other partners. The FAO office in Nepal administered its development under the project ‘Strengthening capacities for disaster preparedness and climate risk management in the agriculture sector” (TCP/NEP/3201 (D). UNDP under UN Joint Program sponsored the project’s extension to two additional districts. In fact, several components and activities outlined in the document have been built on the commu nity-level pilot activities. Therefore, contributions of district level officials and community representatives from the pilot districts are highly creditable in the prioritization. At the national level, the staffs from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives and its departments and representatives from the ministry of Environment, Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, Nepal Agriculture Research Council, Practical Action, UNDP and FAO provided valuable feedback during the initial consultation as well as validation meetings making consolidation of the PFA in its present form possible. The stakeholders’ coop eration and contributions were indispensable and fundamental to ensure the quality of the product. My special thanks are due to Mr. Bishnu Aryal and Lilaram Poudel (the then DDGs, Planning of DOA) who as the Project Manager(s) implemented the project smoothly in their tenure. Dr. D. M. Pokhrel and Bidya Pandey, Senior Horticulturist in the Gender Equity and Environment Division of MOAC and Mr. Kanchan Raj Pandey in the Department of Agriculture are acknowledged for their contribution in the preparation of the framework. Also acknowl edged are Dr. Stephen Bass, Dr. J. D. Nayava and Dr. Krishna Raj Regmi, National Experts in FAO (N) for their facilitations in steering committee meetings, brain storming/ consultative meetings and work shops. Messer Shrawan Adhikay and Arjun Thapa, Program Officers in FAO (N) deserve due apprecia tion for their logistic supports. My sincere thanks go to Dr. Selvaraju Ramasamy in Climate, Energy and Tenure Division of FAO (Rome) for overall technical guidance and supervision to the project and final compilation of the framework. Dr. Hari Dahal Joint Secretary and National Project Director Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives acknowledgement viii Priority Framework for Action contents Foreword iii Preface v Acknowledgement vii Contents viii Executive Summary ix Acronyms x Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION 1 Climate of Nepal 1 Extreme climate events 1 Trends in climate 2 Future climate change projections3 2 Vulnerability of the agriculture sector to climate variability and change 3 Impacts of climate variability and change on agriculture and food security 3 Chapter 2: PRIORITIES IN EXISTING PLANS AND STRATEGIES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS 7 Priorities in the existing plans and strategies 7 Future directions of the Priority Framework for Action (PFA) 8 Chapter 3: THE PRIORITY FRAMEWORK FOR ACTION (PFA) 11 Priority Area I: Strengthening institutions, policy and coordination 11 Priority Area II: Assessing and monitoring climate risks and vulnerabilities 14 Priority Area III: Improved knowledge management, database and awareness raising 15 Priority Area IV: Implementing technical options by integrating community based approaches 16 Priority Area V: Strengthening capacities for effective risk preparedness, response and rehabilitation 19 Cross-Cutting Priorities 20 Chapter 4: INSTITUTIONAL AND COORDINATION MECHANISM FOR IMPLEMENTING THE PRIORITY FRAMEWORK FOR ACTION (PFA) 21 Existing institutional mechanisms 21 Proposed implementation arrangements MOAC 21 Coordination mechanism 23 Monitoring and evaluation 23 Institutional MOAC collaboration to strengthen CCA and DRM in agriculture 24 Strengthening of existing committees in MOAC 26 Annexes I Basic Definitions of Terminology 29 II Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) 2005-2015 31 III Priorities of Climate Change Adaptation 32 IV Prioritized activities from the NAPA workshop on Agriculture and Food Security 33 V Strategies for DRM in Agriculture and Food Sector 37 VI Institutional strengths, gaps and policy framework for CCA and DRM in agriculture 38 VII List of workshops, meetings and contributors for the Priority Framework for Action 40 Priority Framework for Action ix Agriculture remains Nepal’s principal eco-nomic activity, employing over 65 percent of the population and contributing to 33% of the GDP. The agricultural sector is extremely exposed and highly vulnerable to natural disasters and impacts of climate change. Nepal is prone to a variety of recur ring climate related natural disasters such as floods, landslides, snow avalanches, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF), hailstorms, thunderstorms, cold waves, hot waves, drought and epidemics. In particu lar floods, landslides, hailstorms and drought spells are almost regular phenomena. In response to the request from the Government of Nepal, FAO assisted the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC) to “strengthen the capacities for climate risk management and disaster prepared ness in the agricultural sector” through a Technical Cooperation Project (TCP/NEP/3201 (D)) and a FAO/UNDP Joint programme (UNJP/NEP/005/UNJ. The project facilitated several national consultations and provided technical support to identify the priori ties and prepare a 10 year Priority Framework for Ac tion (PFA). The Priority Framework for Action (PFA) draws the actions from the National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA) and National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management (NSDRM). The field experiences through the district and community level interventions, outcomes from the project compo nents (data base management, vulnerability and risk mapping, farmers support services as well as climate/ weather and early warning information provision) contributed heavily to formulate this PFA. The Pri ority Framework for Action builds on the strengths and comparative advantage of the Ministry of Agri culture and Cooperatives (MOAC) and, at the same time, specific actions are proposed considering the existing gaps and weaknesses. Moreover, the Priority Framework of Action lays out activities for achieving the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) and several other climate change related priorities outlined in the first national communication to UNFCCC and NAPA. The PFA considers an integrated approach by considering short-term (disaster response), short to medium-term (Disaster Risk Reduction) and medium to long-term (climate change adaptation) priorities. The first chapter is an introduction, which describes the background information on climate and natural disaster impacts in Nepal, climate trends and future projections, and implications of climate change for agriculture and food security. The second chapter describes the priority setting, which included gaps identified through the consultations and several existing plans and strategies and outlines the under lying principles of the framework. The third chapter describes the framework for action, key areas of focus under each of the priority areas. Chapter 4 provides guidelines on the institutional mechanisms for the implementation of the plan. There are several annexes within the PFA: provide basic terminolo gies, priority areas of HFA, a list of identified actions relevant to climate change adaptation, NAPA and national strategy for disaster risk management. The Priority Framework for Action outlines 5 priority action areas: (i) Institutional and technical capacity for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management in agriculture; (ii) Assessment and monitoring of climate risks, vulnerabilities as well as enhancing early warning systems; (iii) Improv ing knowledge management, awareness raising and education on climate change, adaptation and disaster risk management; (iv) Reducing climate related risks and the underlying vulnerabilities by implementing technical options in agriculture and livestock; (v) Strengthening capacities and procedures for effective disaster preparedness, response and rehabilitation at all levels and integration of climate change adapta tion interventions. executive summary x Priority Framework for Action ABPSD Agricultural Business Promotion and Statistics Division APP Agriculture Perspective Plan ARS Agriculture Research Stations ASC Agriculture Service Centers CBO Community Based Organization CBA Community Based Adaptation CBDRM Community Based Disaster Risk Management CCA Climate Change Adaptation DADO District Agriculture Development Office DDC District Development Committee DDRC District Disaster Relief Committee DHM Department of Hydrology and Meteorology DOA Department of Agriculture DOI Department of Irrigation DLS Department of Livestock Services DLSO District Livestock Service Office DSCWM Department of Soil Conservation and Water Management DRC Disaster Relief Committee DRM Disaster Risk Management DRR Disaster Risk Reduction DWIDP Department of Water Induced Disaster Prevention EWS Early Warning Systems FASWG Food and Agriculture Sector Working Group GCM General Circulation Models GEED Gender Equity and Environment Division GLOF Glacial Lake Outburst Floods HFA Hyogo Framework for Action IDM/IPM Integrated Disease/Pest Management ISDR International Strategy for Disaster Reduction INGO International Non-Governmental Organization LDC Least Developed Country MOAC Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives MOE Ministry of Environment MOHA Ministry of Home Affairs MOLR Ministry of Land Resources MOFSC Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation MOICS Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies NADRM National Authority for Disaster Risk Management NAPA National adaptation Programme of Action NARC Nepal Agriculture Research Council NARDEF National Agriculture and Research Development Fund NEOC National Emergency Operations Centre NFC Nepal Food Corporation NGO Non-Governmental Organization NPC National Planning Commission NSDRM National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management NDMA National Disaster Management Agency PFA Priority Framework for Action RAD Regional Agriculture Directorate RLSD Regional Livestock Services Directorate SALT Slope Agriculture Land Technology TAG Technical Advisory Group TCP Technical cooperation Programme TWG Technical Working Group UN/ISDR United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNDAC United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change VDC Village Development Committee WCDR World Conference on Disaster Reduction WFP World Food Programme acronyms Priority Framework for Action 1 Climate of Nepal The climate of Nepal varies greatly from South to North due to the vast altitudinal variation. The altitudinal variation within a short span of about 193 km, ranging from 60 meters to 8848 meters above mean sea level, makes the country with diverse agro-climatic zones. The regional climate variations are largely a function of elevation. The variable geo climatic conditions, unplanned settlements, degrada tion of natural resources and increasing population makes the country vulnerable to a variety of climate related extreme events. The national average mean temperature is around 15° C, and increases from north to south with the exception of mountain valleys. The onset of the monsoon in early June checks the increase of the daily temperature over the country. Therefore, the maximum temperature of the year occurs in May or early June. Temperature starts decreasing rapidly from October and reaches the minimum of the year in December or January. Although the temperature normally decreases with height, there are also spatial variations in temperature influenced by topography. The Terai belt is the hottest part of the country, where the extreme maximum temperature reaches more than 45º C and causes heat waves during summer. Average rainfall is 1 800 mm, with rainfall increasing from west to east. The North West corner receives the least rainfall, as it is the rain shadow of the Himalayas. Rainfall also varies with altitude. About 80% of the annual precipitation in the country falls between June and September under the influence of summer monsoon. The winter months, from December to February, are relatively dry with few spells of rain. The winter rain decreases in amount from northwest both southward and eastward. From April to May, the country experiences pre-monsoon thundershower activities. The pre-monsoon rainfall activities are more frequent in the hilly regions than in the southern plains. The period of October and November is considered as a post monsoon season and a transition from summer to winter. Extreme climate events Nepal is prone to a variety of recurring natural disas ters such as floods, landslides, snow avalanches, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF), hailstorms, thunder storms, cold waves, hot waves, drought, epidemics and earthquake. Out of the 75 districts in the country, 49 are prone to floods and/or landslides, 23 to wildfires, and one to windstorms. A total of 64 out of 75 districts are prone to disasters of some type (MOHA, 2009). High intensity rainfall events during the monsoon season leave the country highly susceptible to water induced natural disasters such as floods, landslides, flash floods, debris flows and slope failures. Flooding is frequent in the monsoon season during summer, while droughts are not uncommon in certain regions at other times of the year. Prolonged breaks in the summer monsoon cause severe drought. The vulnerability to climate- related extremes and natural hazards are often attributed to insufficient public awareness, lack or inadequacy in prepared ness, lack of coordination among inter-government agencies, inadequate financial resources, low level of technical know-how and skills in mitigation of natu ral disasters, and a strong concentration of knowl edge and skills in academic centers alone, without appropriate information dissemination among the vulnerable population groups. The development of settlements in hazardous areas and marginal land are caused by the lack of proper land use planning. Women are often among the most marginalized people and have limited access to land property and other resources. The poor, marginalized and disad vantaged groups of people are hardest hit by climate extremes in the country. introduction 1chapter 2 Priority Framework for Action Table 1 • Loss of agricultural land and crop by climate related extreme events in Nepal (1971–2007)1 Event Loss of agricultural land and crops (in Ha) Drought 329 332 Flood 196 977 Hail storm 117 518 Rains 54 895 Strong wind 23 239 Cold waves 21 794 Others (Forest epidemic, snow storm, fire, storm, thunderstorm, avalanche, plague etc.,) 83 336 Total 847 648 Trends in climate Temperature observations in Nepal show a consis tent and continuous warming trend. According to available data, average annual mean temperatures have been increasing in Nepal by 0.04 - 0.06°C and these increases are more pronounced at higher altitudes and in winter. There is a general increase in temperature extremes with hotter days becom ing more frequent and cooler nights less frequent. The temperature differences are most pronounced during the dry winter season, and least during the monsoon. There is also significantly greater warming at higher elevations than at lower elevations in the Terai region. Glacier melt as well as expansion of glacial lakes have been recorded in recent decades, with a high likelihood that such impacts are linked to rising temperatures. The precipitation data for Nepal does not reveal any significant trends. However, the analysis based on data from 166 stations across Nepal from 1976 to 2005 reveal a positive annual rainfall trend in Eastern, Central, Western and Far-western Nepal. The mon soon precipitation shows general declining trends in the mid-western and southern parts of western Nepal, with few pockets of declining rainfall in the central and eastern Nepal. In the rest of the country, the monsoon precipitation displays an increasing trend. Post monsoon precipitation shows increasing trend in most of the mid-western and the southern parts of eastern and central/western Nepal. A general de clining precipitation trend is observed in most of the far-western and northern part of western, central and eastern Nepal. The winter precipitation trends show overall increasing trends excepting the northern part of mid-western, western and eastern Nepal. How ever, a detailed analysis is required to understand the significance of these trends. Future climate change projections3 The climate model projections show that there will be a rise in the average annual temperature over Nepal and that it will vary both spatially and temporally. In the OECD study, General Circulation Models (GCM) run with the SRES B2 scenario show an annual mean temperature increase by an average of 1.2°C by 2030, 1.7° C by 2050 and 3° C by 2100 compared to pre 2000 baseline. In general, several studies show higher temperature increment projections for winter as compared to the monsoon season. In terms of spatial distribution, a higher temperature increment over western and central Nepal is projected as compared to eastern Nepal.4 For precipitation, the trends are less certain, but there is evidence of increasing occurrence of intense rainfall events, and an increase in flood days and generally more variable river flows. Importantly, the above changes, which are consistent with a range of climate change models, are predicted to continue into the 21st Century. The summer monsoon is likely to become more intense with increasing occurrence of heavy rainfall events. In terms of winter precipita tion, the models project almost no change in western Nepal and up to 5 – 10% increase in precipitation in eastern Nepal. During the summer months, the projections show an increase in precipitation for the whole country in the range of 15 to 20%. In terms of spatial distribution, studies show an increase in monsoon rainfall in Eastern and Central Nepal as compared to Western Nepal. 1 Global assessment of risks, Nepal Country Report, ISDR Global Assessment Report on Poverty and Disaster Risk 2009. 2 National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA), September 2010, Ministry of Environment, Government of Nepal. 3 Projected Climate Change, National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA), September 2010, Ministry of Environment, Government of Nepal. 4 NCVST (2009) Vulnerability Through the Eyes of Vulnerable: Climate Change Induced Uncertainties and Nepal’s Development Predicaments, Institute for Social and Environmental Transition-Nepal (ISET-N), Nepal Climate Vulnerability Study Team, (NCVST) Kathmandu Priority Framework for Action 3 Vulnerability of the agriculture sector to climate variability and change Agriculture remains Nepal’s principal economic activity, employing over 65 percent of the popula tion. Only 20 percent of the total area is cultivable; another 29 percent is forest. Rice, wheat and maize are the main cereal crops mostly produced in the Te rai region. The Terai plains constitute 43 percent of the total cultivated land. The majority of the farmers are reliant on rainwater for irrigation, as the country lacks major facilities for artificial irrigation. On aver age, about 65 percent of the total cultivated land is rainfed. Recurring climate related natural hazards undermine agricultural productivity causing poverty and food insecurity. The crop and livestock produc tivity are constrained by variations in farm level water resources, changes in seasonal rainfall characteristics, extreme climate events such as droughts, floods, heat and cold waves as well as pest and diseases. The most vulnerable to climate variability and change are the poor and marginalized, who generally are the least able to cope with disasters, live in most hazard prone areas and generally have the least information, knowledge and resources to reduce their risk. The predicted impacts of climate change will intensify existing vulnerabilities, inequalities and exposure to hazards and will therefore impact most on those least able to cope with climate risks. Smallholder farmers will be the most vulnerable to the predicted impacts of climate change. These vul nerable groups tend to own fewer livelihood assets, including land and livestock, receive lower income, and have low levels of education and less access to community and government services. They tend to be reliant on rain-fed agriculture and occupy land that is prone to floods, drought and landslides. Many of Nepal’s poor farmers occupy small parcels of land that can barely produce enough for the family. They are more reliant on local natural resources such as forests and water and would therefore suffer the most from the drying up of local water sources and changes in the vegetation cover. Women and children are most vulnerable to climate change. As the men undertake seasonal migration to nearby towns to seek work, the women, boys and girls are left to cope with variable climate and man agement of farm. They need to travel long distances to collect firewood and water for both household use and livestock. Highly variable and unpredictable climatic conditions would lead to food shortages at the household level and thus children and elderly are most likely affected by under nourishment. Some farming communities are already undertaking several local coping strategies. These include chang ing crops such as growing vegetables instead of grain crops, planning for short duration and low water requiring crops, diversification of farm enterprises, rain water harvesting and erosion control measures. The poor farmers and women in particular are least able to cope due to lack of resources to undertake coping strategies. Even if these coping practices are implemented, these are not enough to match the impacts of climate extremes and creeping changes in climatic conditions. Impacts of climate variability and change on agriculture and food security The Himalayan environment faces additional threats derived from global warming and the resulting repercussions of climate change on the Himalayan environment. These are bound to further increase the number of hazardous events and their social, economic and environmental impacts. It is likely that a variety of different climate induced threats will further increase the impacts of hazards in new areas. Rapid population growth, shrinking farm size in the Terai region, continued unplanned agriculture in hazard-prone areas are expected to further increase the damage and losses, if no countermeasures are put in place. The cropping intensity in vulnerable areas is increasing due to demand for food. The future impacts of climate change on agricultural production, as calculated by Cline (2007)5, suggest an initial increase until 2050 due to carbon fertiliza tion, but a decrease by 2080 by 4.8 percent. This is based on the assumption of a positive carbon fertilization effect up to 2.5 °C temperature increase, and a decrease of 17.3 percent or without that effect thereafter. These figures do not reflect the most likely 5 Cline WR (2007) Global warming and agriculture: impact estimates by country. Washington DC. Centre for Global Development, 250p. 4 Priority Framework for Action negative impacts of natural disasters on agricultural production, which are likely to increase in frequency and intensity during that time span. In the Terai region people report more frequent and less predictable monsoon flooding, making it more difficult to prepare for and to cope with. They also face more extremes, including severe ‘cold waves’ that destroy winter vegetable crops. Winter droughts are also increasingly evident causing widespread damage to agriculture in Terai and mid-hills. These events are likely to become more frequent due to prolonged dry spells in future irrespective of change in total annual precipitation. Much of the population is reliant on rain fed agricul ture that is vulnerable to localized drought and more variable precipitation in terms of form, timing and intensity. With increased intensity of summer mon soon rain events, the risk of flash flooding, erosion and landslides will be increased. With warmer winters, particularly at higher altitudes, less precipitation may fall as snow, further accelerating glacial retreat but also reducing soil moisture and accelerating erosion, and therefore impacting on winter crops. However, due to Nepal’s diverse topography and range of eco logical zones, the overall impact of climate change on agriculture and ecosystems is likely to be highly variable depending on location. More than 3.4 million people in Nepal are estimated to require food assistance, due to a combination of natural disasters, including 2008/09 winter drought – one of the worst in the past several decades. In Ne pal, the highest incidence of poverty is found in the Mountain and Hill areas, particularly in remote areas of the Mid and Far Western Development Regions, and among the most marginalized sectors of society as defined by gender, caste and ethnicity. These zones are also considered the most food insecure and also have a proportionately higher population of dalits and ethnic minorities. In the past few decades (1983–2005), over 28 billion Nepalese rupees (USD 288 million) were lost due to natural disasters, an average of nearly 1 208 million Nepalese rupees per year. The accompanied indirect losses, in terms of lost time and opportunities, and the lack of services and the repercussions thereof, may be several times more than the above figure. Limited information is available on the differential impact of these disasters on women, the youth, the elderly and people with disabilities. Changing hydrological flows due to both glacial re treat and increased and more variable precipitation will impact on the many irrigation systems, water powered grain mills, hydropower plants and drinking water supply systems throughout the country. This will affect agricultural production, water and sanita tion, leading to increasing levels of malnutrition and incidence of water-borne disease. Excessive water due to projected increased precipita tion would impact human settlements, infrastructure and agriculture land. Changes in river flow will have direct implications for micro-hydro projects in the hill and mountain ecological zones; an increase in the number of cloudy days and changes in the form of precipitation (from snowfall to hailstones) has resulted in adverse impacts on solar power potential in the mountain ecological zone; and increases in the incidence of forest fires has adversely impacted on the already scarce fuel-wood sources. Priority Framework for Action 5 Box 1: Climate risks and agriculture Floods: There are more than 6000 rivers and streams in Nepal. As the topography of the country is very steep and rugged, intense rainfall during the monsoon season causes flood, and debris flow and moderate or light rainfall for long hours cause extensive landslides. In July 1993, Nepal experienced a devastating flood in the Terai region and affected 487 534 people. On 18 August 2008, a massive flood on the Koshi River breached about 1.7 km of its embankment, which resulted in inundation of many village development committees with major damage to agriculture land and standing crops. Excessive rainfall of 240 to 300 mm per day between the 19th and the 20th September 2008, with frequency of 50 year record, caused floods in Kailali and Kanchanpur districts that damaged irrigation facilities and related infrastructure. The estimated cost of damaged irriga tion facilities in 11 542 ha was $12.7 million. The total loss of agriculture income owing to lack of irrigation was estimated to be about $16.6 million. Drought: In 2009, the summer monsoon was delayed and weak - therefore the transplanting of paddy was delayed in most parts of the country, and in the same year, flood occurred in western Nepal during the harvesting period causing a damage of 20 to 25% on paddy production. The table 2 highlights some major losses in the agricultural sector by natural disasters in recent years. Table 2 • Area (ha) of crops affected by climate related extreme events in Nepal Description Year 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Paddy (ha) 115000 6967 116506 3585 120000 88800 30873 92000 Maize (ha) 4435 954 1293 20 47 4271 549 1700 Millet (ha) 500 419 0 1451 3 0 Others 2067 611 324 Total 211502 8532 118299 4024 120047 94522 31749 93700 Source: Bimonthly Bulletin of Crop and Livestock Situation in various years, ABPSD, MOAC 6 Priority Framework for Action Priority Framework for Action 7 Priorities in the existing plans and strategies National Agricultural Policy, 2004: The Gov-ernment of Nepal had brought into force the National Agricultural Policy (2004), which takes into consideration aspects that are related to Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management. The extracts relevant to climate related extremes and natural hazards are: � Survey/surveillance system should be established and activated to assess the impact of heavy rain fall, droughts, diseases, insects and other natural calamities as well as to mobilize agriculture relief schemes. � Special facilities should be provided to the targeted groups to construct and install small irrigation in frastructures such as pedal pumps, rower pumps, sprinklers, drips and water harvest ponds. � In times of climatic hazard and/or natural disas ter, safety nets (food and nutrition) should be gradually developed for farmers with less than half a hectare of un-irrigated land, as well as landless and marginal farmers lacking alterna tive employment opportunities. � Production of food grains at the local level should be encouraged by launching a special program � Mechanisms should be established to purchase food grains produced near by the hilly areas for supplying food to the food deficit areas. � The livestock insurance program should be ex tended; besides poultry/chicks, seeds of selected crops and high-value agricultural products need to be gradually introduced for insurance. � The negative impacts and other environmental problems resulting through the use of agricul tural chemicals on soil and water bodies should be minimized. National Development Plan: Three-Year Interim Plan (2007 – 2010) of Nepal recognizes disasters as one of the major impediments of national develop ment process. The plan recognizes priorities to DRM issues pertaining to various development sectors. The plan distinguishes the importance of disaster risk reduction and mitigation, emphasizes the need to introduce changes into the prevailing national policies for the required shift of focus from disaster response to prevention, mitigation and prepared ness, identifies challenges such as the need to foster coordination among the institutions, and seeks to promote better understanding of hazards and the related disaster risks. The plan recognizes existing gaps such as the lack of institutional capacities at various levels, and empha sizes the need for systematic hazard and vulnerability mapping, enhancing public awareness and capacities for disaster risk assessment and building code imple mentation. The need to establish proper institutional mechanisms at the highest level for establishing a com prehensive DRM system is also taken into account6. National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA): Nepal has recently completed the prepa ration of the National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA), which is a requirement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) for all Least Developed Countries (LDC’s), which are parties to the convention. Of the six major sectors identified for NAPA, “Agriculture and Food Security” is one of them. The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC) is leading the thematic area and FAO has provided technical sup port to prioritize the activities (Annex 2). The priori ties identified by the “Agriculture and Food Security” committee for NAPA was considered for preparation of this priority framework for action. Priorities in existing Plans and strategies and Future directions 2chapter 6 UNDP., 2008. National strategy for Disaster Risk Management in Nepal, Final Draft., UNDP, March 2008 8 Priority Framework for Action National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management (NSDRM): Nepal developed a policy and a legal framework for disaster management by promulgat ing the Natural Calamity (Relief) Act 2039 in 1982. It constituted the Central Disaster Relief Committee (CDRC) with the Minister of Home Affairs as the Chair and, for the first time, allocated the district level management of rescue and relief activities to the Chief District Officer (CDO), who is the ex-officio chairperson of the District Disaster Relief Commit tee (DDRC). Very progressive when promulgated, this act, although amended twice, has however failed to integrate actions focusing on a paradigm shift to disaster risk management from a reactive interven tion in the form of relief. The recent NSDRM is closely oriented along the lines of the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA)7 and it implies a major shift in government policies away from an emergency response driven way of work ing toward a disaster risk management perspective, which puts equal emphasis on prevention, mitigation and preparedness, highlights the links between di saster management and development, as well as the cross sectoral nature of DRM and the responsibilities of a variety of actors in DRM. The strategies relevant to agriculture and food security are presented in the Annex VI. The increasing commitment to move towards more risk management action offers enormous opportuni ties to shift the focus from emergency response to risk management in the agricultural sector. Experi ences from FAOs’ assistance (TCP/NEP/3201 (D)) to “strengthen capacities for disaster preparedness and climate risk management” especially field level actions offer guidelines to align the agriculture sec tor plan with the National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management. The preventive and preparedness actions in agriculture includes the adoption of crop varieties, cropping patterns, hedge row intercrop ping, as well as the adaptation of farming systems, seeds systems, risk reducing water management on farmers fields, or livestock management. These prac tices clearly contribute to climate change adaptation interventions in the agricultural sector. In addition, FAO is supporting preparation of DRM plan in four districts of Nepal and recently expanded to two additional districts with the support of UNDP. These DRM plans recently facilitated by FAO ex plicitly target the agricultural sector related aspects. Nevertheless, they provide a basis to build upon and integrate agriculture and food security perspectives. The Priority Framework for Action takes into ac count the roles and responsibilities of the agriculture support services at the district level. Future directions of the Priority Framework for Action (PFA) The Priority Framework for Action (PFA) builds on an integrated approach of linking Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management8 as both share common goals and objectives. Both fields aim to reduce the vulnerability and risks faced by the communities and achieve sustainable development. Considering the convergence of actions, the prior ity framework for action promotes an integrated approach to address the climate risks both in short term (DRM) and long-term (CCA). The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC) recognizes the importance of a coordinated approach and inte gration of climate change adaptation and disaster risk management priorities in its plans and programmes. The NAPA priorities and DRM strategy, creates a strong momentum for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management in Nepal, but also a strong demand for integrating related actions into agriculture sectoral priorities. This enables donor agencies and development partners to assist the country, particularly in agriculture and natural resource management, in building the institutional capacities and technical skills needed for moving towards the implementation of the NAPA priorities and DRM strategies, in an integrated manner. With regard to the agricultural sector, there is an urgent demand by the MOAC to flesh out a sector specific PFA for DRM, in line with the NSDRM strategy and for CCA in line with NAPA priorities. The institutional and technical capacity building of the MOAC at national and district levels is needed, 7 UN/ISDR., 2005. Hyogo Frame for Action 2005-2015: Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters: World conference on Disaster Risk reduction (18-22 January, 2005), www.unisdr.org, Kobe, Japan 8 The Disaster Risk Management under the Priority Framework for Action (HFA) considers mainly hazards of meteorological, climatological and hydrological (including mass movements wet) origin and associated events and some related phenomenon. Priority Framework for Action 9 in particular within its line agencies (DOA and DLS) to address climate change adaptation and disaster prevention/preparedness related issues in a proactive way from an agricultural perspective. This will cata lyze a process to better position the DOA and DLS as key partners and actors in the implementation of the new strategy for disaster risk management in Nepal as well as to introduce DRM into the main stream of MOAC’s sustainable agricultural and rural develop ment planning. For the first time in Nepal, the strategy for DRM provides an institutional framework, which recognizes the important role of agriculture in DRM. Until recently, agriculture did not have any formal mandate related to disaster risk prevention or pre paredness and climate change adaptation. Building institutional and technical capacity within MOAC related to climate change impacts, vulnerability and adaptation will also provide a comparative advantage to better represent the agricultural sector in national level adaptation initiatives facilitated by the Ministry of Environment. FAO’s technical assistance from 2008 includes facilitation of processes related to prioritization of agriculture and food security perspectives into NAPA. The NAPA food and agriculture committee incorporated several priorities based on the field level experiences from the FAO’s assistance. All these interventions need to be strengthened and up-scaled by institutionalizing and integrating the experiences into government programs and projects in the future. This PFA is timely and provides a strong basis to sup port MOAC to replicate good practices tested from the project and documented from elsewhere. The data requirements, information about climate change impacts and vulnerabilities need to be systematically assessed and managed to prepare adaptation strategies in agriculture. The existing approaches focus on the current risks and employ a livelihood perspective to assess the location specific risks and vulnerabilities. As climate change scenarios are increasingly made available, model based impact assessments in line with the NAPA priorities need to be carried out to provide objective information on impact, risk and vulnerability to plan and implement location specific adaptation priorities. Use of currently available weather and climate infor mation and early warning systems offers significant opportunities for managing climate risks pro-actively. The risk management approach focusing on farm management strategies can eventually enhance the adaptive capacity and resilience of the farmers to the future anticipated impacts due to climate change. Therefore, building on the existing Early Warning System (EWS), innovative forecast products tailored to the local needs of farmers, to increase lead times for flood and drought warnings to facilitate farmer’s decision making can improve farmer’s choice of crops and other management practices. Efforts have already started enhancing the capacity of the agricultural sup port services and local organizations to understand the climate change impacts, vulnerabilities and adapta tion. However, further research is needed to improve the current 24 hours forecasts into long lead forecasts, which would help to expand the scope of early warning from its current focus on life saving towards a better safeguarding of peoples’ livelihoods. Climate change adaptation interventions should focus on community needs. As the climate change impacts and adaptation are location specific, inter ventions at the local level require introduction and demonstration of innovative adaptation options through a guided learning by doing process at dis trict and community levels. The community based adaptation approach has already been tested through the FAO-TCP project and further efforts are needed in all the risk prone districts to disseminate locally adapted, innovative and gender-sensitive technolo gies for climate change adaptation within the ag ricultural sector. This process will enhance: local awareness about adaptation to climate variability and change; the resilience of local communities against the impacts and unpredictability of current climatic extremes, which are expected to further increase in intensity and frequency according to climate change projections; livelihood assets, on-farm employment and household food security; and active participation of the most vulnerable men and women. As MOAC is actively participating in the ongoing community based adaptation, its agencies are well placed to up scale climate change adaptation and disaster risk management initiatives in all the risk prone districts irrespective of development regions. Within the framework of the NAPA and NSDRM, the overall objective of the PFA is to provide a road map to the MOAC with operationalizing the process of shifting from a reactive emergency response focused intervention approach towards a pro-active natural hazard risk prevention/ preparedness in short term and climate change adaptation in long-term. 10 Priority Framework for Action Priority Framework for Action 11 The 10 years (2011 – 2020) Priority Framework for Action (PFA) is an endeavour to devise ways and means to manage the impacts of climate change and natural disasters in agriculture. The PFA is prepared based on a brain storming session and two stakeholder workshops (Annex VIII) and a number of meetings with staff of MOAC at national and at district levels. The sectoral PFA for agriculture ap plies the structure of main areas of action outlined in the HFA, but systematically brings in issues related impacts of climate change and adaptation. The PFA is built in line with the NAPA and NSDRM as a road map for responding to the impacts of cli mate change and natural disasters (climate related) collectively. The 10 years (2011 – 2020) priority framework for action systematically targets to cover all the hazard prone districts in Nepal. These actions seek to ensure that climate change adaptation and di saster risk reduction are a national and local priority with a strong institutional basis for implementation. The priority action areas are: � Strengthening institutional and technical capac ity for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management in agriculture � Assessing and monitoring climate risks (current and future) and vulnerabilities and enhance early warning systems � Improving knowledge management, awareness raising and education on climate change impacts, adaptation and disaster risk management � Reducing climate related risks and the underly ing vulnerabilities by implementing technical options in agriculture and livestock sectors � Strengthening capacities and procedures for effective disaster preparedness, response and rehabilitation at all levels and integration of climate change adaptation initiatives The Priority Framework for Action (PFA) promotes to: (i) Strengthen climate change adaptation, disaster prevention, impact mitigation, preparedness and response as well as rehabilitation within the agricul tural sector; (ii) Articulate MOAC, DOA and DLS contributions to the NAPA and National DRM Strat egy, linked to national climate change policies and strategies; (iii) Provide MOAC, DOA and DLS with a road map to strengthen institutional and technical capacities to effectively provide climate change ad aptation and DRM related technologies and services to farmers and (iv) Strengthen coordination among the key stakeholders on matters related to CCA and DRM at national, district and local level. Priority Area I: Strengthen institutional and technical capacity for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management in agriculture and enhance policy frameworks and coordination mechanisms at all levels Objectives: Ensure efficient institutional mecha nisms within MOAC, while covering all aspects of climate change and disaster risk management activi ties related to the agricultural sector and enhancing coordination with other agencies. Gaps to be addressed: At present there is no spe cific entity mandated within line departments under MOAC to be responsible for climate change adapta tion and DRM in agriculture. The new challenges require a re-definition of CCA and DRM related tasks and responsibilities in MOAC and DOA/DLS, including partnerships and networks with other stakeholders. Strategy: Strengthening institutional and technical capacities and mainstreaming climate change adapta tion and disaster risk management within agriculture and food security policies, strategies and plans. the Priority Framework For action (PFa) 3chapter 12 Priority Framework for Action Key areas Description of main activities Main responsibility In co-ordination with Indicators of monitoring Strengthen institutional mechanisms within MOAC for effective coordination of climate change and DRM related tasks � Strengthen the Gender Equity and Environment Division (climate change) and Agribusiness and Statistics Division (Disaster Risk Management) of MOAC with additional trained staff and ensure logistic support for the climate change unit in MOAC. A secretariat/focal unit to oversee CCA and DRM activities are proposed. MOAC (GEED, ASD) MOACDOA,DLS, NARC Additional staff with specific ToR and required logistic support � Develop an information platform and resource center within MOAC for providing need based information on climate change, DRM and land degradation related aspects and technologies MOAC MOACDOA, DLS, NARC Information centre established with equipments and staff � Establish a mechanism for information exchange, collaboration, coordination between Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Home Affairs with regard to climate change and DRM, respectively MOAC MOE, MOHA Necessary orders issued from respective Ministries and Departments Mainstream climate change and disaster risk management into agriculture and food security policies, strategies and plans � Establish a committee to draft or integrate the climate change adaptation and disaster risk management and sustainable land management (controlling and preventing land degradation) priorities in to agriculture and food security policies, strategies and plans (including special programmes on food security) MOAC DOA, DLS, NARC Committee established with Terms of Reference and updated policies, strategies and plans endorsed by the Government and available � Promote to prepare district adaptation and disaster risk management plans and ensure that climate change issues (including adaptation and mitigation, land degradation) and food security priorities are integrated into district level plans DOA and DLS DADO and DLSO Number of districts having new plans or updated existing plans � Update agriculture land utilization plans and integrated natural resources management plans (focusing on control and prevention of land degradation) in view of climate related risks building on outcomes of land resources mapping project MOAC Dept. of Land Reform New guidelines and updated plans available � Update and integrate agriculture perspectives into national level documents such as NAPA, National Communication, National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management, strategies for preventing and arresting land degradation etc., MOAC MOE MOHA Updated documents have food and agriculture perspectives � Institutionalization of agricultural insurance (for crops and livestock) mechanisms through new guidelines and pilot in selected districts MOAC DOA and DLS New guidelines available and piloted in selected districts � Prepare guidelines for national redistribution of surplus agricultural produce (rather than international trade) as a mechanism for exchange within the country during extreme climate and non-climate risks MOAC NFC and Ministry of Supply and Trade New guidelines available and endorsed by the Government Priority Framework for Action 13 Key areas Description of main activities Main responsibility In co-ordination with Indicators of monitoring Strengthen the technical units and mandate them for climate change adaptation, disaster risk management and integrated natural resources management in DOA and DLS at national and district levels � Enhance operational and technical capacities of agriculture offices operating at district and area level on climate change adaptation, disaster risk management and integrated management of natural resources DOA and DLS DADO and DLSO Training programs conducted in risk prone districts � Institutional set up (technical units) with DOA and DLS at the national level for climate change adaptation, disaster risk management and management of degraded lands DOA and DLS DADO and DLSO Technical units within DOA, DLS established with Terms of reference � Mandate the agricultural departments and offices at decentralized levels to participate as key partners in DRM committees at all levels MOAC DOA/ DLS New guidelines and informed to all the vulnerable districts � Establish data management unit in DADO to cover livelihood vulnerabilities, DRM related data and baselines, information on degraded lands and formulise data collection, data management and dissemination system DOA/DLS DADO/DLSO A database management facility established in 10 most vulnerable districts � Prepare guidelines for formulation of district and community level DRM plans and promote a participatory dialogue with all stakeholders at district level for preparation of district disaster preparedness plans incorporating priorities of natural resources management and management of degraded lands DOA/DLS DADO/DLSO/DDC/ NGOs Additional district DRM plans prepared or updated incorporating agriculture perspectives � Develop curriculum for DRM training and integrate into regular DOA/DLS training programs (3 days, 7 days) DOA/DLS DADO/DLSO Training manuals prepared and trainings offered for at least 200 DOA/DLS staff Strengthen agricultural research institutions and facilitate to prioritize immediate issues and conduct applied research on climate change impacts and adaptation/mitigation and develop technologies for sustainable land management � Strengthen research and development linkages (research – extension) on climate change adaptation and disaster risk management and land management between NARC and DOA/DLS � Promote joint (NARC/DOA/DLS) demonstration of recent drought, flood, cold and heat tolerant varieties and technologies of integrated natural resources management and rehabilitation of degraded lands at the regional centers and local research stations NARC and DOA/DLS NARC and DOA/DLS DADO/DLSO/ARS DADO/DLSO/ARS New research projects on crop improvement and management prepared and implemented by NARC as a lead coordinating agency Guidelines for field demonstration of adaptation practices established and at least 20 large scale demonstrations conducted 14 Priority Framework for Action Key area of support Description of main activities Main responsibility In co-ordination with Indicators of monitoring Improve climate impact, risk and vulnerability assessment methodologies and transferred to MOAC and relevant departments � Conduct hazard risk, vulnerability and impact assessment studies specific for the agricultural sectors, and share relevant information for adaptation planning MOAC FAO/NARC/INGO/ NGO Results of the analysis available for decision making at different levels � Prepare detailed climate impacts, hazard risk (including land degradation) and vulnerability maps for agriculture MOAC FAO/INGO/NGO Spatial information products available with national focal organizations � Consolidate and use results from in-depth studies on current and future climate risks and impacts on natural resources and agricultural sectors to design policy priorities, adaptation and DRM strategies MOAC FAO/DOA/DLS Results of the impact analysis considered for formulation of policies, plans and adaptation strategies Strengthen the institutional and technical capacity of DHM to be able to provide necessary forecast products and early warning systems for agriculture application � Enhance human resources, logistics and facilitate need based training programs for the agrometeorological division of DHM DHM MOAC MOE Number of staff trained and engaged on sustainable basis to feed information products relevant to agriculture � Evaluate and communicate available early warning systems, five days and seasonal forecast products from international and regional institutions for agriculture applications DHM MOAC MOE New forecast products made available and farmers in at least 10 most vulnerable districts have access to the new products � Assess existing agroclimatic/ climate monitoring for agriculture applications and strengthen climate monitoring infrastructure and equipments for DOA and NARC research stations DHM MOAC/DOA/ NARC At least 30% of the agroclimatic observatories upgraded Strengthen technical capacity to apply need based climate and weather information products and early warning systems in agriculture � Support to MOAC translate weather and climate forecast products from Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) into agricultural impact outlooks using decision support tools DHM MOAC/DOA/ DLS The technical core group in MOAC, DOA, DLS trained to interpret weather and climate information and to prepare impact outlooks � Enhance climate database in DOA/DLS and train to interpret historical climatic data for agriculture application DHM DOA/ DLS Updated historical climate data (30 years) for a minimum of 50 stations available at DOA and DLS for use � Analyze current flood and drought early warning system as basis to assess the needs and strengthen with new systems for application in agriculture DHM MOAC/DOA/ DLS A report with recommendations for improvement; new flood and drought early warning systems piloted � Establish community based early warning system for flood at local level in collaboration with MOAC and Department of Water Induced Disaster Prevention DHM MOAC MOAC MOAC/DWIDP Localized flood early warning systems established and tested in major river basins � Establish communication strategy and mechanisms for timely dissemination of EW messages to local level /farmers DHM DADO/DLS A prototype strategy tested by involving farmer groups and replication strategy finalized. Priority Area II: Assess and monitor climate risks (current and future) and vulnerabilities and enhance early warning systems for proactive climate risk management and adaptation to climate change Objective: Improve climate risk and vulnerability assessment tools and methods, climate information products and early warning systems customized to the needs of farmers and other agriculture dependent communities. Gaps to be addressed: Access to latest tools and methods; translating climate information products into impact outlooks and alternative management strategies relevant to farmers and establishing a strategy for communication. Strategy: Use of best available methodologies for more systematic monitoring of current and future climate related risks for agriculture and food secu rity. Improve sector specific early warning systems with dissemination down to local level. Priority Framework for Action 15 Develop and test livelihood based damage and loss assessments procedures and baseline database formats in agriculture sector � Consolidate existing data on damage and loss due to climate related extreme events (including natural disasters) in collaboration with other relevant ministries and organizations and strengthen the database in MOAC/DOA/DLS MOAC/DOA/ DLS MOHA A time series data for at least 25 years available � Strengthen livelihood oriented baseline data collection methodologies and formats and facilitate implementation in risk prone districts of Nepal MOAC DOA/DOLS New integrated livelihood based approach introduced in place of existing methods � Strengthen the crop and livestock monitoring and forecasting system and data base in high risk areas to establish a basis for better risk reduction, emergency needs assessment and response MOAC DOA/DOLS/NARC Improved crop and livestock monitoring and forecasting system established building on existing ones Priority Area III: Improved knowledge management, database and awareness raising on climate change impacts, adaptation and disaster risk management Objective: Use knowledge to build a culture of innovation, and resilience, and institutionalize training on climate change adaptation and disas ter risk management in agriculture. Gaps to be addressed: The operational skills are needed at the institutional level to implement cli mate change adaptation and disaster prevention and preparedness activities. Therefore, awareness creation and knowledge building are considered very important. There is also a lack of knowledge and awareness about the climate related impacts at the community level. Department of Agricul ture (DOA) and Department of Livestock Services (DLS) have a comparative advantage to receive trainings because of their local level presence. Strategy: Awareness raising, knowledge manage ment and information dissemination on climate change adaptation and disaster risk management in agriculture Key areas of support Description of activities Main responsibility In coordination with Indicators of monitoring Design and apply awareness creation strategy for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management in agriculture at the local level � Identify the information needs of farmers and agriculture dependent communities relevant to disaster risk management (short term) and climate change adaptation (long-term) MOAC/DOA/ DLS DADO/ DLSO Information needs of local communities in different agro-eco regions available and integrated into routine agriculture support services � Local level awareness raising campaigns and training programs for farmers on lessons learned and best practices of DRM, sustainable land management and climate change adaptation DADO/ DLSO ASC/ASSC Number of training programmes organized for the farmer groups in each district � Conduct field days, orientation meetings, demonstration rally, exchange visits for farmers and farmer groups to create awareness on climate change adaptation and disaster risk management DADO/ DLSO ASC/ASSC At least one event per year conducted in each of the VDCs involving most vulnerable farmer group representatives � Train local farmer organizations, community based local institutions and promote access to information on risks and vulnerabilities for community based disaster risk management, integrated natural resources management and climate change adaptation DADO/ DLSO/ DDC ASC/ASSC At least one training programme conducted for the representatives of local institutions at the VDC level 16 Priority Framework for Action Key areas of support Description of activities Main responsibility In coordination with Indicators of monitoring Enhance knowledge, innovations and good practices for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management in agriculture. � Develop information centers for documentation of gender sensitive local knowledge, risks and vulnerabilities at village development committees and district level DOA/DLS DDC/DADO/ DLSO Information centers within DDC/DDRC established in close coordination with DADO/DLSO � Good practice database (includes indigenous and local practices) relevant to agriculture and livestock for climate change adaptation and DRM established at national level and dissemination at local level MOAC/ FAO DOA/DLS A good practice database developed in the proposed secretariat in MOAC and linked to FAO database � Integrate climate change, DRM and sustainable land management into farmer field school approach and promote agricultural extension system to demonstrate and disseminate good practices DOA/DLS DADO/DLSO Revised farmer field school curriculum available and at least two demonstrations conducted in each district � Include CCA and DRM issues into the curricula of agricultural colleges and vocational agriculture schools MOAC. NARC Ministry of Education New curriculum includes climate change and DRM related subjects and implemented in agricultural colleges and vocational agriculture subjects Mobilizing local communities and local institutions for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management interventions � Promote establishment of model demonstrations at regional research centers by involving local communities to showcase relevant good practice examples on climate change adaptation and disaster risk management NARC DOA/ DLS One model demonstration centre in each of the regional research centers established in next 5 years � Organize periodical capacity development and knowledge sharing sessions with DOA/DLS staff and local institutions and farmers on relevant aspects of climate change adaptation and disaster risk management DOA/ DLS/ DADO/ DLSO Annual training events organized involving participants from local institutions and farmer representatives at the regional research centers Knowledge sharing and strategic dissemination of key reports and information material related to climate change adaptation and disaster risk management � Dissemination of information on climate change impacts on agriculture and livestock through mass media, news papers, printed bulletins DOA/ DLS DADO/ DLSO Routine information sharing mechanism established through the mass media � Dissemination of tested good practice examples of climate change adaptation and disaster risk management DOA/ DLS DADO/ DLSO Printed leaflets, information briefs developed and disseminated at the district level. Priority Area IV: Reducing climate related risks and underlying vulnerabilities by implementing technical options by integrating approaches of Community Based Adaptation (CBA) and Community Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) in agriculture and livestock sectors Objective: Increased capacity of extension staff, research institutes and farmers to implement and disseminate a range of tested good practices for increasing resilience against climate change impacts and natural hazards. Gaps to be addressed: Technical options to assist farmers in increasing livelihood adaptation and re silience against climate change impacts and natural hazards are known and available at regional and national levels. However, the available options are often not known or easily accessible at community level. Climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction measures are not systematically assessed, Priority Framework for Action 17 Key areas of support Description of main activities Main responsibility In coordination with Indicators of monitoring Promote integrated production systems and economic diversification to build resilience of agriculture communities to climate change impacts � Encourage the use of crops and livestock species and of integrated production systems more resistant to climate related risks DOA/ DLS/NARC DADO/ DLSO New models of integrated production systems introduced in agroecological zones and adopted. � Strengthen highland-lowland linkages to improve community access to goods and services DOA/DLS/ NARC DADO/ DLSO Guidelines prepared for highland-lowland linkages and adopted at watershed scale � Enabling climate vulnerable communities to sustain their livelihoods by improving access to basic agricultural services, technology and practices (on-farm agro-biodiversity management, integrated pest management, home garden promotion, farmers field school) DOA/DLS/ NARC DADO/DLSO Over 50% of the communities in vulnerable districts have improved access to basic agriculture services Promote post harvest practices to proactively manage climate related risks � Promote improvement of strategic seed banks and seeds storage systems at community/district levels and enhance seed buffer stock at regional levels DOA DADO Improved seed storage systems at community and district level established � Strengthen existing resource centers for seeds and saplings DOA/ NARC DADO/ARS Number of existing resource centers for seeds and saplings improved. � Improve local storage practice (farm level food, animal feed and local seeds storage systems) DOA/ DLS DADO/ DLSO New seed storage technologies introduced and adopted in selected districts of Terai and mid-hills Promote risk sharing and transfer mechanisms � Inventory and review of available insurance mechanisms for crops, and livestock and saving and credit schemes in participation of relevant stakeholders and outline recommendations MOAC/ FAO DOA/DLS A report available with recommendations and subsequent implementation at the national level � Assess scope and feasibility for risk transfer mechanisms in agricultural sector and develop strategy tailored to the needs of medium and small farmers MOAC/ FAO DOA/DLS Small farmer risk transfer mechanisms devised and guidelines available. Reducing land slide and erosion risks through community level interventions � Encourage practices for reducing landslide risks, soil erosion control and nutrient loss MOAC/DOA/ DLS DADO/ DLSO Innovative, indigenous and improved practices of land slide treatment and erosion control available � Discourage settlements in flood prone areas and invest on river training especially to reduce flood risks. DDC Dept. of Water induced Disaster New guidelines on settlements in hazard prone areas � Promote terrace management in hills to reduce the risk of landslides and Slope Agriculture Land Technology (SALT) DOA DADO Improved models of SALT introduced in mid-hills and mountains and adopted documented and shared. To make climate change adaptation and disaster risk management more effec tive, it is of utmost significance that available options are systematically documented, shared and adapted to location specific needs in a participatory way with farmers. Strategy: Facilitate long-term community based adap tation processes and related technology development and transfer for enhancing climate resilience and sus tainable agriculture in the most vulnerable districts. 18 Priority Framework for Action Key areas of support Description of main activities Main responsibility In coordination with Indicators of monitoring Promote sustainable biodiversity, land and soil management practices � Promote natural and social heritage conservation relevant to agriculture and community level bio-diversity conservation practices through community mobilization. DOA New guidelines on heritage conservation and bio-diversity conservation introduced. � Mitigation of river cutting and promotion of sustainable livelihood activities on the river embankments in selected pilot districts Dept. of Water induced Disaster Prevention DDC River embankment strengthening activities are carried out with other relevant agencies � Sustainable land and soil management (organic farming, community biodiversity management, integrated nutrient management etc.,) DOADLS At least 20 districts have introduced sustainable land and soil management practices � Integrate climate change adaptation and mitigation priorities into activities of the forest user groups and leasehold forestry in pilot scale and promote sustainable forest resource management (community fire control, non timber forest products management etc.,) MOFSC/DOF DFO Practices contributing to adaptation and mitigation introduced through forest user groups in mid-hill districts as part of the first phase. Sustainable water management and conservation practices on farmers fields � On-farm water conservation and management practices for supporting vulnerable communities (water harvesting schemes, multi use water system and technologies e.g. drip irrigation) DOA DADO New water conservation practices introduced, demonstrated and adopted. � Increase irrigation coverage where water resources are available without negative impacts on ground water DOI DIO Number of hectares of additional area under irrigation � Improve water harvesting techniques, water productivity and drought management in selected Terai and mid-hills DOA/NARC DADO /ARS Number of new techniques introduced and adopted Improve construction of animal shelters and hen pens including guidelines and promote proactive animal/livestock management initiatives � Develop standards for animal shelter DLS/NARC DLSO New standards followed for constructing animal shelters � Vaccination of animals before start of the rainy season in vulnerable districts DLS DLSO Coverage of existing vaccination programmes to additional VDCs � Promote fodder and forage grass cultivation in the bunds and community lands DLS DLSO New species identified and technology introduced and adopted by the farmers � Supply of improved fodder seeds and fodder storage methods DLS DLSO Improved practices introduced and adopted by the farmers � Link local dairy and milk production to urban markets DLS/NDC DLSO Mechanisms established to improve value chain linkages � Promote improved manure management and support to implement biogas plants at community level and animal waste recycling as manure DLS/BSP-Nepal DLSO Number of biogas plans established through DLS in close collaboration with BSP. Promote community action plans for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management and package lessons learned � Mobilize and develop community action plans with the involvement of local stakeholders and integrate with technological options proposed as part of food security programmes and district disaster risk management plans DDC/DOA/DLS and others DDC, DADO, DLSO Number of VDCs having community action plans � Promote community based organizations and local communities to implement local adaptation and disaster risk management plans DDC/DOA/DLS and others DDC/DADO/DLSO Number of VDCs implemented community action plans � Package lessons learned from CBA and CBDRM interventions as a background to promote enabling policy provisions to support CBA and CBDRM in agriculture. DDC/DOA/DLS and others DDC/DADO/DLSO Number of agriculture and food security policies/plans considered CBA/CBDRM actions. Priority Framework for Action 19 Priority Area V: Strengthen capacities and procedures for effective disaster preparedness, response and rehabilitation at all levels and integration of climate change adaptation into response, recovery and rehabilitation initiatives Objective: Enhance the national and local capacities for disaster preparedness, response and rehabilita tion and ensure that climate change adaptation ac tions are considered in all relevant interventions Gaps to be addressed: A significant resources are being allocated for response and rehabilitation after natural disasters. Mostly all these efforts are ad hoc in nature focusing on the immediate needs. These interventions can be utilized as an opportunity to integrate climate change adaptation priorities con sidering long-term perspectives. Strategy: Facilitate long-term sustainable risk reduc tion and adaptation measures as part of response and rehabilitation interventions. Key areas of focus Description of activities Main responsibility In coordination with Indicators of monitoring Promote regular contingency planning at all levels � Conduct a contingency planning exercise in hazard exposed districts and identify the practices to facilitate preparedness, response DOA/ DLS/ DDC DADO/DLSO All the most vulnerable districts are having contingency plans Enhance adequate response measures to improve effectiveness of emergency response actions � Formulate definitions and protocols for emergency situations in agriculture and food security and phasing of emergency response MOAC/ FAO DOA/DLS Improved protocols and guidelines available for phasing of emergency response and recovery � Strengthen mechanisms to provide timely early warning systems for timely response DHM/ MOAC MOAC DOA/DLS DOADLS Improved capacity to interpret and response to timely warnings exists. � Preserve seeds/saplings at community/district/ regional levels MOAC DOA/DLS Quality seeds and saplings maintained at the district and community levels as preparedness for emergency response. � Motivate to maintain emergency fund to contribute to support to farmers MOAC DOA/DLS Emergency funds promoted at the community level through existing cooperatives and farmer groups � Promote establishment of strategic emergency buffer stocks of seeds, and key agricultural inputs in district agricultural development offices or at regional level MOAC DOA/DLS The district level offices maintain specified quantity of inputs allocated for emergency response Standardize the content/ format of information collection on disaster impacts � Standardize procedures and promote institutional cooperation to faster damage and needs assessment in agriculture MOAC/ DDC DOA/DLS The MOAC and its departments participate in the national mechanisms to be able to provide damage and needs in agriculture sector � Apply a livelihood based integrated damage, loss and needs assessment methodology including pre-disaster baseline data in all hazard exposed districts and VDCs (linked to risk reduction and preparedness) DOA/DLS/DDC DADO/DLSO A new guidelines available integrating livelihood based approaches. Build capacity to know the risks at all levels to plan for better preparedness and response � Promoting localized information dissemination mechanisms including posting of pertinent information at public places in remote villages (met info/warnings/ vulnerability maps etc) DOA/DLS/DHM DADO/ DLSO/DDC Printed materials available and accessible to communities 20 Priority Framework for Action Key areas of focus Description of activities Main responsibility In coordination with Indicators of monitoring Strengthen capacities to integrate CCA, DRM and sustainable natural resources management into response and rehabilitation projects � Use response, recovery and rehabilitation projects as entry point to initiate better disaster risk reduction (short-term) and climate change adaptation (long-term) applying the principle of building back better. MOAC/MOHA DOA/DLS/DDC The response, recovery and rehabilitation projects implemented with a long term perspective rather than ad-hoc emergency supports Cross-Cutting Priorities The Priority Framework for Action (PFA) considers four cross cutting elements that should be part of all the priority actions outlined in this chapter. Capacity development: Strengthening institutional and technical capacities is necessary for effective implementation of the priorities. Though capac ity development is specifically addressed under the Priority Action Area I, this applies to all the priority action areas based on the need. The core areas of capacity development includes research and devel opment, technology transfer, tools and methods for assessment, agriculture and livestock support services, policy advocacy, awareness raising and mainstreaming. Knowledge and communication: There is a lack of knowledge and awareness about the climate related impacts and adaptation measures at all levels. Com munication between the research and development in general and to the extension system in particular are the key to transfer new innovations to the farmers. Generation, documentation, sharing and application of information directly contribute to meeting prior ity action III. Partnerships: Strategic partnership promotes an interdisciplinary approach in implementing the priority actions. The priority Framework for Action (PFA) foresees partnership at all levels and among the agencies and ministries. Specific collaboration and coordination arrangements at various levels are described in Chapter 4. Gender Equity: The gender dimension is crucial in the agriculture sector, where gender inequalities in access to and control over resources are persistent, undermining a sustainable and inclusive develop ment of the sector. The gender roles and relations affect food security and household welfare, critical indicators of agriculture development. Integration and mainstreaming of gender priorities in all the activities is the key for successful implementation of the priority framework for action. Priority Framework for Action 21 4chapter institutional and coordination mechanism For imPlementing the Priority Framework For action (PFa) Existing institutional mechanisms The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC) is the main body responsible for implement ing the priority framework of action. The implement ing agencies shall be the two Departments, namely, DOA and DLS of MOAC. The Ministry is the central apex body of the Government of Nepal to look after the agriculture and allied fields in the country. The MOAC consists of five divisions, two Councils, four Departments, one Autonomous Body, one Research Council, three Corporations and a Development Committee and Board. Agriculture development pro grams are run in all 75 districts. Several agricultural services centers and thousands of pocket areas at the grass root levels are in operation. The supervision and technical backstopping at the regional level are carried out through five Regional Directorates each for agriculture and livestock departments. The Department of Agriculture (DOA) is headed by the Director General (DG), there are three Deputy Director Generals (DDGs): (1) DDG-Planning and Human Resources; (2) DDG-Monitoring Evaluation and Management; and (3) DDG-Technology Trans fer and Coordination. There are twelve Program Directorates, five National Programs, five Regional Directorates, five Regional Training Centers, Farms/ Centers, Labs, Quarantine check Post and other offices under DOA. There are seventy five District Agriculture Development Offices, and three hundred seventy eight Agriculture Service Centers in Nepal. At present, the CCA and DRM activities are under the DDG-planning and human resources. The DDG is also Project Manager of the first CCA/DRM project implemented through the FAO-TCP (TCP/ NEP/3201 (D)) to “strengthen capacities for disaster preparedness and climate risk management in the agricultural sector”. To make the CCA and DRM and their related activities effective, a team of seven to nine existing staff of Planning and Human Resources Section can be utilized. It is proposed to form a technical and coordination group for CCA and DRM under Director General, Department of Agriculture. The existing committee formed under the TCP proj ect can serve this role. As the CCA and DRM actions are location specific and in order to cater the needs of the vulnerable districts, a team of regular staff who is responsible to supervise, coordinate, and facilitate the planning and implementation of the prioritized activities is needed. Periodic monitoring of CCA and DRM activities should be carried out by existing human resources and as per the regular procedures of the Department. The Department of Livestock Services (DLS) has four Program Directorates: (1) Animal Health; 2) Livestock Production; 3) Livestock and Training Ex tension; and 4) Livestock Marketing and Promotion. For the CCA and DRM activities, Planning Section does have overall responsibility. Under the Director General, Department of Livestock Services, a core working group need to be formed to look after both technical and coordination aspect of CCA and DRM. The technical staff trained under the TCP project may be part of the technical and coordination group within the Department of Livestock Services. Proposed implementation arrangements MOAC The MOAC is supported by five divisions, namely the Planning Division, Monitoring and Evaluation Division, Gender Equity and Environment Division, Agribusiness Promotion and Statistics Division and Administration Division. The Gender Equity and Environment Division performs activities on envi ronmental, plant genetic resources and agro-biodi versity, pesticides, organic agriculture and climate change issues through the Agricultural Environment and Biodiversity Section. The division worked as a 22 Priority Framework for Action desk office in the Ministry to coordinate the activities of FAO supported climate change adaptation and disaster risk management project. The Gender Equity and Environment Division can be an official coordinating unit for climate change related aspects. At present, the Gender Equity and Environment Division (GEED) is also acting as a coordination unit with the thematic Committee (Agriculture and Food Security) of the NAPA. One of the Under Secretaries from the Agricultural En vironment and Biodiversity Section is appointed as a member in the thematic committee. However, the Agriculture Environment and Biodiversity Section do not have adequate manpower to coordinate all the activities proposed as part of the Priority Framework for Action. This unit needs to be strengthened with additional manpower and technical expertise to ad dress issues related to climate change adaptation. Currently, the statistics section of the Agribusiness Promotion and Statistic Division (ABPSD) is working as a focal point for all the disaster related activities (pre, during and post disaster rehabilitation). The ABPSD is responsible for the collection and process ing of agricultural statistics. At present, the crop data are being collected mostly by subjective method. This unit needs to have close collaboration with the GEED in future in order to have a comprehensive and inte grated approach of addressing the climate risks both in short term (extreme climate events) and long term (climate change). At the department level (DOA and DLS), there is currently no unit established to carry out the climate change and disaster risk management related aspects. There are focal points nominated to implement the FAO assisted project combining CCA and DRM. This needs to be upgraded as a technical core group with dedicated staff responsible for coordinating and implementing the activities relevant to climate change adaptation and disaster risk management. On the research part, the Environment unit in Nepal Agriculture Research Council (NARC) is undertak ing studies on climate change impact assessment on cereals and vegetables. In the present context, the environment unit of NARC needs to be upgraded to Steering Committee for Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management Secretariat/Focal Unit (MOAC) Nepal Agriculture Research Council and other research institutes Gender Equity and Environment Division of MOAC Department of Agriculture (DOA) Department of Livestock (DLS) Technical Core Group of DOA Technical Core Group of DLS Regional Extension and Research Stations Technical Task Group on CCA and DRM (District Agricultural Development Office) Village Development Committees (VDC) Community Based Organisations (CBO) Farmer Groups/Forest User Groups/Women Groups/Farmers District DRM Unit District Level Line Agencies, Emergency Response Orgs, NGOs, Academic Institutions Agriculture Promotion and Statistics Division of MOAC Priority Framework for Action 23 a Division under the present Directorate of Planning and Coordination of NARC to enable future activi ties and coordination with other partners. The present steering committee chaired by the Sec retary (Agriculture) in MOAC can be made a perma nent body. The steering committee can be responsible for approving the annual work plans related to CCA and DRM in close linkages to its secretariat within the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. As the CCA and DRM are the priorities to be inte grated into the overall work of the DOA and DLS, it is important to strengthen their technical capacities. The trained man power (technical core group) from these departments can look after the technical issues related to CCA and DRM. The technical core group with dedicated staff can be created to undertake the work related to climate change adaptation and disaster risk management. This technical core group may be converted into a unit with dedicated staff based on the need. The proposed technical capacity development for the DOA and DLS is very important to effectively implement all the five major result areas described in the priority framework for action. The two departments DOA and DLS are responsible for the implementing the CCA and DRM activities in all 75 districts and service centers on priority basis. The concerned units of both departments will directly coordinate with the Secretariat/Focal Unit in the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The responsibility of field level work is under the District Agricultural Development Office (DADO) at the district level. Creating awareness among the farmers and the local community, training program on the impact of climate change and disaster risk management in agriculture, update of district risk management plans, demonstration of CCA and DRM good practice examples, regular update of field school curriculum and other extension activities should be held at the district and community level. To develop the capacity, training programs and periodic field trips need to be arranged for the district level offices. At the district level, at present, the Technical Task Group for CCA and DRM is chaired by DADO and this also includes DLS staff. Under the technical support of DADO and DLSO, the farmer field school curriculum should be revised and incorporated with resource materials relevant to climate change adapta tion and disaster risk management. The district level technical task group can conduct vulnerability and risk assessment on a regular basis to identify vulner able areas in a phased manner. These resources can be used to develop new district disaster management plan or update existing plans. Coordination mechanism At present, the GEED and ABPSD in the MOAC are looking after the CCA and DRM related activi ties respectively. At the district level, the DADO in collaboration with DLSO, DDC, and development agencies and farmers groups are responsible to implement the programmes as per the guidelines of the MOAC. There are number of other players from different Ministries, International Organizations, Ministerial Divisions and Departments are engaged in climate change and disaster risk management. For enhance the effectiveness of local actions proposed in the Priority Framework for Action, coordination mechanism is central. The suggested coordination mechanisms are: � Inter-sectoral/inter-agencies mechanism: There are number of agencies at the national and decentralized levels are active in CCA and DRM activities. At the national level the proposed focal unit at the Ministry of Agriculture and Coopera tives and the focal points in the DOA and DLS may liaise with the Ministry of Environment (MOE), Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA), Ministry Forest and Soil Conservation (MOFSC) and international and UN agencies such as FAO, UNDP, WFP and other relevant INGOs and NGOs. The secretariat/focal unit will also liaise with all the members of the steering commit tee drawn from Ministries, organizations and departments at the national level. � Intra-sectoral mechanism: The proposed focal unit for CCA and DRM in the MOAC can liaise with the focal points and the technical core group members through the respective heads of the departments in DOA and DLS to chan nel programmes and projects related to climate change and disaster risk management with the approval of the steering committee. Monitoring and evaluation A central level monitoring and evaluation system will be developed by MOAC in order to track per 24 Priority Framework for Action formance on implementation of activities specified in the PFA. The system will also identify success and failures of implementation and key lessons learned from various components of the framework. The matrices of indicators outlined in chapter will be elaborated during the implementation phase. Each project will develop specific baselines prior to imple mentation of the actions. The cross cutting elements such as gender integration, capacity development, policy advocacy and awareness rising will also be considered as key indicators. The monitoring and evaluation system will be admin istered by the secretariat/focal unit proposed to be established within the MOAC. The unit will develop common guidelines and will be made available to all stakeholders and development partners. The unit will bring all the projects into the central monitoring and evaluation system. The unit will also collate all the outputs of the projects and will be made available through the central database to be maintained at the secretariat. The reports and outputs will be reviewed to find the suitability of good practice examples to replicate in similar areas of the country. Institutional MOAC collaboration to strengthen CCA and DRM in agriculture Climate Change Adaptation The Ministry of Environment (MOE) is the focal ministry for climate change and environmental matters. The ministry formulates and implements policies, plans programs related to the environment; carries out research on environment and technology and promotes alternative energy. The Ministry of Environment has a full mandate in climate change related activities in Nepal. The Ministry has under taken a lead role to prepare the National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA). Agriculture and Food Security Thematic Working Group (TWG) of the NAPA is coordinated by the Gender Equity and Environment Division (GEED) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The division may continue to coordinate all climate change related aspects with the Ministry of Environ ment, other development partners and research institutes. The coordination and collaboration with the proposed climate change programme coordina tion and monitoring unit within MOE is essential to draw resources for agriculture sector and to avoid duplication of efforts. Disaster Risk Management The Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) is the apex body in relation to disaster management in Nepal. The Ministry formulates and implements national policies, plans and programs on disaster risk man agement. The Ministry is responsible for providing rescue and relief to the disaster victims. Data collec tion and dissemination, collection and distribution of funds and resources are also vital functions of the Ministry of Home Affairs. A Central Disaster Relief Committee (CDRC) under the chairmanship of the Home Minister provides policy guidelines and direc tives to the operating agencies for rescue and relief works. Being the focal point, the Ministry of Home Affairs has the responsibilities to coordinate the activities relating to disaster preparedness, mitiga tion and reconstruction as well as rehabilitation with other agencies. The Ministry of Home Affairs is also responsible for local administration and the maintenance of law and order. It has 4 divisions – Management, Personal Administration, Law and Order, and Planning and Special Services, 5 regional administration offices, and 75 district administration offices. The Disaster Management Section is under the planning and special service division of the ministry. The National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) operates under this division. The main objective of the center is to act as a coordination and communication point for disaster information across Nepal, including gov ernment agencies and other response and recovery stakeholders such as Nepal Red Cross Society, UN agencies, INGOS and NGOs. The Central Disaster Relief Committee (CDRC) pro vides necessary funds, resources and relief materials to the natural disaster victims through the District Natural Disaster Relief Committees (DDRCs). Central Natural Disaster Aid Fund under the control of the Central Disaster Relief Committee and the District Natural Disaster Aid Fund under the control of the District Disaster Relief Committee are in operation. The Central Fund is released to the District Disaster Aid Funds according to need and justification for immediate rescue and relief assistance to the victims of natural disasters. Priority Framework for Action 25 The disaster management section carries out vari ous types of public awareness training programs on disaster risk management and conducts risk assess ment through projects in close collaboration with international and national organizations. The section sends messages through mass media so as to make people aware of the natural disasters. The section has a central database system and it publishes annual reports, risk maps, booklets and pamphlets for infor mation dissemination. The proposed secretariat and focal unit for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC) can be a focal point to coordinate activities together with the Ministry of Home Affairs in all activities related to agriculture. Promoting decentralized DRM planning The National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management in Nepal links the International Hyogo Framework of Action (HFA) to Nepal’s specific context, and sets an agenda for priority action to mainstream disaster risk management into Nepal’s development. This also promotes development of District Disaster Risk Management Plans to support the district level hazard risk and vulnerability assessment and iden tification and implementation of the priorities with a multi-sectoral context. By analyzing the impacts of the climate risks (short and long term) and the fundamental vulnerabilities, and by identifying the key institutions at the district and local level, the plan sets strategic priority activities for the district. As several agencies are involved and closely connected to the communities, participation at the district level institutional mechanisms for DADO/DLSO to articulate importance of agriculture and livestock sector is essential. Sustainable Natural Resources Management Sustainable natural resources management is one of the major elements of the priority action areas in the framework. Strengthening collaboration with relevant ministries and departments is the key for successful implementation of the local ac tions. The Ministry of Irrigation (MOI)’s two major departments: Department of Irrigation (DOI) and Department of Water Induced Disaster Prevention (DWIDP) are responsible for managing water re sources in the country. Department of Irrigation is mandated to plan, develop, maintain, operate, man age and monitor different modes of environmentally sustainable and socially acceptable irrigation and drainage systems. Its ultimate aim is to provide year round irrigation facilities and increase the irrigable area of the country. Apart from this, the DOI also has to carry out river- training activities to protect the floodways, floodplains and agricultural lands in the form of river bank protection such that the loss of properties caused by flooding is reduced. The Department of Water Induced Disaster Preven tion (DWIDP) has a mandate to assist the Ministry in formulating river management policy, carrying out emergency disaster prevention and rehabilita tion works including river-training and inundation mitigation, conduct research, training and workshops and create public awareness, develop and transfer of conservation technology, develop disaster informa tion systems and prepare hazard and risk maps. As many activities of CCA and DRM within the PFA are inter-related, collaboration with these departments will enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the local interventions. Similarly, the Department of Soil Conservation and Watershed Management (DSCWM) within the Ministry of Forestry and Soil Conservation (MFSC) is responsible for planning, implementation, and monitoring soil conservation and watershed man agement programs/activities based on the principles of integrated watershed management. Its activities include land use development planning, commu nity integrated watershed management focusing on land productivity conservation, development infrastructure protection, natural hazard prevention, community soil conservation and extension, com munity mobilization and empowerment, nursery establishment and seedling production, technology development, study and mapping, and monitoring and evaluation. The whole system of DSCWM is in itself highly relevant to CCA and DRM and some of them are directly related to agriculture and thus coordination is necessary between the line agencies. Weather and climate information The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) is responsible for collection, analysis and dissemination of hydro-meteorological data includ ing snow and ice. It focuses on five program areas – hydrology, climatology, weather forecasting, flood forecasting, and glacier and snow hydrology. The weather forecasting is provided for international 26 Priority Framework for Action aviation as well as general 24 hrs weather forecast is provided to the public. The DHM’s role is expected to broaden and development of new forecast prod ucts will be useful to enhance the information use in agriculture for disaster risk management and climate change adaptation. In this regard, the MOAC, DOA and DHM need to collaborate to facilitate smooth transfer of data and information products for agri cultural applications. Training programmes were organized to the MOAC, DOA and DLS staff on cli mate change impacts, vulnerabilities and application of weather and climate information in agriculture as part of the FAO project. The activities could be continued by strengthening the collaboration with the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology. Strengthening of existing committees in MOAC Food and Agriculture Sector Working Group There are several Committees and Working Groups under the MOAC. The key committees relevant to CCA and DRM activities proposed in the PFA are presented here. The major working groups and committees are: the Food and Agriculture Sector Working Group (FASWG), Steering Committee for Strengthening Capacities for Climate Change Adap tation and Disaster Risk Management in Agriculture and the Technical Advisory Group (TAG). After the 1993 natural disaster in Nepal, three groups, namely, food and agriculture; health; and logistic were formed with the objectives (a) to establish a channel of communication between the GoN and the international community in order to provide technical and financial support following a disaster, (b) to assist the GoN in performing assessment, ana lyzing and interpreting the data and formulating an appropriate intervening strategy, (c) to work closely with the GoN in identifying various needs following a disaster, (d) to provide a conduit for information exchange between disaster management actors, and (e) to provide guidance and as an information resource to the international community on the cur rent process and procedures of the GoN for disaster response. In MOAC, the Food and Agriculture Sector Work ing Group (FASWG) was established in 2004. The FASWG is composed of representatives from differ ent institutions working in the realm of food and ag riculture. The core group consists of representatives from the following agencies: � Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC) � Ministry on Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MOICS) � Ministry of Home affairs (MOHA) � Ministry of Health (MOH) � Nepal Food Corporation (NFC) � Disaster Management Unit of UNDP � World Food Programme (WFP) � Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) � NGO Federation, Nepal � Other NGOs and Private sectors Considering the constant transfer of employees in these institutions; the FASWG considered appropri ate to have two representatives per institutions in the FASWG to ensure representation of all institutions in the working group. However, if necessary, other institutions will be invited to participate in the meet ings. objectives � The overall objective of the FASWG is to ensure that human survival and well-being particularly in the realm of food and agriculture – are as sured in case of any emergency. This goal will be reached through the coordination of prepared ness and relief activities, among the FASWG members and the GoN. The main objectives of this working group are: � Facilitate communications among the members by providing financial and technical support; � Formulate an appropriate strategy for assessing losses and needs in the areas of food and agri culture; � Identify the priorities for maintaining a mini mum food security reserve; � Address the disaster situation and assist the GoN timely and effectively in case of disaster; � Monitor on a continuous basis the disaster situation and signs of floods, landslides, drought, crop diseases, insect infestation, food-borne, and farm animal diseases; � Provide a conduit for information exchange be tween Nepal and international crop monitoring facilities; The nature of support activities undertaken by the FASWG are as follows: Priority Framework for Action 27 immediate support � Act as a liaison among concerned national and international agencies; � Collect and analyze information related to the disaster situation; � Identify donors and INGO interests, resources, capabilities and processes; � Assist the GoN to present and appeal to donors for support; � Assist the GoN and the LSWG in the develop ment of systems for distributing relief supplies; � Coordinate a system among donors to ensure that adequate and timely food and other agricul tural relief is provided to the disaster victims at the country level; � Ensure that the aid is appropriate to Nepal’s dietary and agricultural practices; and � Assist in preparing detailed status maps outlining where both the GoN and NGO support activities are taking place. long-term support � Assist the GoN in developing a long-term food and agriculture support plan for the rehabilita tion stage of a disaster; � Assist the MOAC and MOICS in assessing the impact of disaster on the country food security; � Assist in carrying out an assessment of food, seed and fertilizer stocks available within the country; � Assist in formulating a food and agricultural intervention strategy that would minimize short and long-term price distortions on the food and agriculture sector; and � Assist in the preparation of projects for agricul tural rehabilitation and emergency food stock. The type of activities coordinated by the FASWG will depend upon the scale (magnitude) and characteris tics of the disaster. The working modality may differ in terms of a rapid-onset disaster (floods, landslides, earthquake, insect infestation and animal epidemic) or a slow – onset disaster (drought and starvation). The Terms of Reference of the working group need to be revised incorporating the elements necessary to implement the PFA described in this document. Steering Committee for CCA and DRM in Agriculture Sector The FAO assisted TCP\NEP\2301 (D) has started in October 2008 to strengthen capacities for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management in the agriculture sector. The Steering Committee for DRM and CCA in MOAC is chaired by Secretary. The members of the steering committee are as follows: � Joint Secretary, Planning Division, MOAC � Joint secretary, Monitoring and Evaluation Divi sion, MOAC � Joint Secretary, Agri-business and Statistics Division, MOAC � Director General, Department of Agriculture � Director General, Department of Livestock Services � Director General, Department of Hydrology and Meteorology � The Representative, Ministry of Environment � The Representative, Ministry of Local Develop ment � The Representative, Ministry of Home Affairs � The Representative, Ministry of Energy � The Representative, Department of Water In duced Disaster Prevention � The Representative, UNDP Technical Advisory Group (TAG) The Technical Advisory group was also established on July 2009 for DRM and CCA in MOAC. These are the following members. � The Representative from Gender Equity and Environment Division, MOAC � The Representatives from Agri-business and Statistics Division, MOAC � The Representatives from GIS Section, MOAC � The Economist and Agronomist from Depart ment of Agriculture � The Representatives from Department of Live stock Services � The Representatives from Department of Water Induced Disaster Prevention � The Representatives from Department of Hy drology and Meteorology � The Representative, Ministry of Home Affairs � The Representative, Ministry of Local Develop ment � The Representative, Ministry of Environment � The Representative, Ministry of Energy In case of need, the Steering Committee can nomi nate the representatives from other Government and non- Government Organization. The Steering Committee would nominate the focal person from the above organizations. 28 Priority Framework for Action Priority Framework for Action 29 Basic deFinitions oF terminology i annex adaptation: Adjustment in natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climatic stimuli or their effects, which moderates harm or exploits beneficial opportunities. adaptive capacity: The ability of a system to adjust to climate change (including climate variability and extremes) to moderate potential damages, to take advantage of opportunities, or to cope with the con sequences. capacity Building: In the context of climate change, capacity building is developing the technical skills and institutional capabilities in developing countries and economies in transition to enable their participa tion in all aspects of adaptation to, mitigation of, and research on climate change, and in the implementa tion of the Kyoto Mechanisms, etc. climate change: Climate change refers to any change in climate over time, whether due to natural variability or as a result of human activity. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) defines ‘climate change’ as: ‘a change of climate which is attributed directly or indirectly to human activity that alters the composition of the global atmosphere and which is in addition to natural climate variability observed over comparable time periods’. climate variability: Climate variability refers to variations in the mean state and other statistics (such as standard deviations, statistics of extremes, etc.) of the climate on all temporal and spatial scales beyond that of individual weather events. Variability may be due to natural internal processes within the climate system (internal variability), or to variations in natural or anthropogenic external forcing (external variability). See also climate change. climate change impact assessment: The practice of identifying and evaluating, in monetary and/or non-monetary terms, the effects of climate change on natural and human systems. climate change impacts: The effects of climate change on natural and human systems. Depending on the consideration of adaptation, one can distinguish between potential impacts and residual impacts: Potential impacts: all impacts that may occur given a projected change in climate, without considering adaptation. Residual impacts: the impacts of climate change that would occur after adaptation. disaster: A serious disruption of the functioning of a community or a society causing widespread human, material, economic or environmental losses which exceed the ability of the affected community or society to cope using its own resources. A disaster is a function of the risk process. It results from the combination of hazards, conditions of vulnerability and insufficient capacity or measures to reduce the potential negative consequences of risk. disaster risk reduction (drr) refers to the con ceptual framework of elements considered with the possibilities to minimize vulnerabilities and disaster risks throughout a society, to avoid (prevention) or to limit (mitigation and preparedness) the adverse impacts of hazards, within the broad context of sustainable development. disaster risk management (drm) consists of a management perspective that combines prevention, mitigation and preparedness with response. drought: The phenomenon that exists when pre cipitation is significantly below normal recorded levels, causing serious hydrological imbalances that often adversely affect land resources and production systems. 30 Priority Framework for Action hazard: A potentially damaging physical event, phe nomenon or human activity that may cause the loss of life or injury, property damage, social and economic disruption or environmental degradation. Natural hazards can be classified according to their geologi cal (earthquake, tsunamis, volcanic activity), hydro meteorological (floods, tropical storms, drought) or biological (epidemic diseases) origin. Hazards can be induced by human processes (climate change, fire, mining of non-renewable resources, environmental degradation, and technological hazards.) Hazards can be single, sequential or combined in their origin and effects. risk: The probability of harmful consequences, or ex pected losses (deaths, injuries, property, livelihoods, economic activity disrupted or environment dam aged) resulting from interactions between natural or human-induced hazards and vulnerable conditions. resilience: The capacity of a system, community or society potentially exposed to hazards to adapt, by resisting or changing in order to reach and maintain an acceptable level of functioning and structure. This is determined by the degree to which the social system is capable of organizing itself to increase its capacity for learning from past disasters for better future protection and to improve risk reduction measures. risk assessment: Diagnostic process to identify new risks that communities may face again. livelihood: A livelihood comprises the capabilities, assets (including both material and social resources) and activities required for a means of living. A livelihood is sustainable when it can cope with and recover from stresses and shocks and maintain its capabilities and assets both now and in the future, while not undermining the natural resource base. rehabilitation: A post disaster activity performed to restore (partially or in full) the losses occurred as a result of the disaster. relief: a short-term support to the surviving disaster victims (food, shelter, medicines, expenses for crema tion of the dead, etc.) immediately after a disaster. rescue: A successful effort to save lives/properties during a disaster. This may also include some of the successful efforts for the same purpose. sensitivity: Sensitivity is the degree to which a system is affected, either adversely or beneficially, by climate variability or change. The effect may be direct (e.g., a change in crop yield in response to a change in the mean, range or variability of temperature) or indirect (e.g., damages caused by an increase in the frequency of coastal flooding due to sea-level rise). vulnerability: The conditions determined by physi cal, social, economic and environmental factors or processes, which increase the susceptibility of a com munity to the impact of hazards. 30 Priority Framework for Action Priority Framework for Action 31 ii annex hyogo Framework For action (hFa) 2005-2015 Hyogo Framework of Action 2005-2015 (HFA) is the consensus strategy adopted by 168 member countries in the UN World Conference on Disaster Reduction in January 2005 in Kobe in order to spearhead the task of disaster risk reduction globally. The HFA 2005-2015 was developed based on the gap analysis in the national and global efforts in DRR in the pre ceding decade from 1994-2004. The goals set by the HFA 2005-2015 are: a) Inte gration of disaster risk reduction into sustainable development policies and planning, b) Development and strengthening of institutions, mechanisms and capacities to build resilience to hazards, and c) Sys tematic incorporation of risk reduction approaches into the implementation of emergency preparedness, response and recovery program. It recommends five priorities for Action, namely, � Priority Action 1: Ensure that disaster risk reduc tion (DRR) is a national and a local priority with a strong institutional basis for implementation. � HFA Priority Action 2: Identify, assess and moni tor disaster risks and enhance early warning. � HFA Priority Action 3: Use knowledge, innova tion and education to build a culture of safety and resilience at all levels. � HFA Priority Action 4: Reduce the underlying risk factors. � HFA Priority Action 5: Strengthen Disaster preparedness for effective response. The HFA Framework provides logical steps for achieving DRR; knowledge of the risk faced, espe cially from a participatory process with the partici pation of the people and communities at risk, is the starting point. Once the risk is known and there is a conviction on the possibility and commitment for reducing the risk, one needs the knowledge, skills, and methodologies for reducing the risk. The next priority action stresses on knowledge management for DRR aiming at propagating the knowledge and empowering communities with the skills. The next step suggested is to home into action for risk reduc tion targeting the causative factors; thus, it focuses on risk assessment as the starting point for DRR. However, risk reduction is a long-term process, and there is always some residual risk at any point in time, hence the Framework suggests also disaster prepared ness for effective response. All the steps mentioned above are possible only if there is a firm commitment by the nation to make disaster risk reduction as its priority and if it creates suitable legal, policy and in stitutional arrangements for implementing the DRR initiative, which forms the first priority action of the HFA. Nepal has expressed its commitment to DRR by signing the HFA 2005-2015. Nepal has already prepared the NSDRM and outlined the strategy for the food and agricultural sector. 32 Priority Framework for Action iii annex Priorities oF climate change adaPtation First national communication to UNFCCC Nepal first National Communication (2004) to United Nation Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has suggested the following priorities on climate change and agriculture. � Develop drought tolerant crop varieties and study the use of traditional varieties; � Estimate the change in production rates with Carbon dioxide fertilization and temperature increase on different crops - rice, field crops, and vegetables; � Study the role of agro-silviculture systems in Ne pal- which are regarded as carbon dioxide sinks; � Undertake studies of economic models that determine the ability to mitigate climate change through emission reduction vs. the ability to adapt to such changes through adjustments in production functions; � Study the aspects of soil organic matter and nutrient cycling (rates of accumulations, decom position, etc.) in relation to climate change and agricultural sustainability; � Study the effect of different traditional practices such as green manuring, continuous cropping with fertilizer, multiple cropping, modified alley-farming, etc., on mitigating climate change impacts; � Study the effect of climate change impact on weed, pest and disease occurrence of cultivated crops and develop forecasting systems; � Identify agro-ecological zones particularly sensi tive to climate change impacts and potential vulnerable areas; � Undertake studies to determine the probability of drought in different agricultural seasons and in different areas; � Examine factors affecting methane production in rice grown under different agro-ecological zones and farming practices; � Study of the impact of climate change on water availability and crop water requirements; � Promote rain-fed farming and efficient utiliza tion/conservation of water; and � Develop integrated farming systems National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA) The NAPA provides a process for the LDC to identify, communicate and prioritize the most “urgent and immediate” adaptation needs, and respond to those needs. The priority activities identified through the NAPA process will be made available to the entity that will operate the LDC fund, and also other sources of funding, for the provision of financial resources to implement these activities. Based on the FAO/ TCP workshop (February 23, 2010 to support NAPA) findings, five main projects with 40 corresponding activities on Agriculture have been prepared. These five proposed projects and forty linking activities are as follows: Five Proposed Projects � On–farm soil and water conservation initia tives for supporting communities vulnerable to climate change impacts; � Enabling climate vulnerable communities by improving local access to agricultural services; � Strengthening highland-lowland linkages to im prove community access to agricultural services; � Linking local diary and meat production to ur ban markets to enable community fight against climate change impacts; and � Building adaptive capacity to enhance commu nity resilience to climatic hazards. Priority Framework for Action 33 iv annex Prioritized activities From the naPa workshoP on agriculture and Food security Key areas Priority activities Irrigation and water management � Increase irrigation facilities through the promotion of shallow tube well, water collection/recycling and rain water harvesting; � Promotion of low cost non-conventional irrigation technology including drip/sprinkle irrigation, Thai-Jar and overhead water tank; Resource conservation � Promotion of resource conservation technologies including minimum tillage, seed priming, crop mixtures, double transplanting of rice and low nutrient requiring widely adapted crop species; � Promotion of organic agriculture practices with special focus on bio-pesticides, organic fertilizers, crop nutrients and pest management; � Promotion of organic agriculture practices with special focus on bio-pesticides, organic fertilizers, crop nutrients and pest management and multiple cropping; � Improved collection and utilization of rain water in pasture and rangeland areas; Strengthening agriculture service systems � Distribution of crop seeds, seedlings, saplings and fingerlings adaptable to local conditions; � Promotion of a community seed bank for cereals, vegetable, forage, fodder and agro-forestry species; � Promotion of crop varieties for vulnerable areas, adaptable to climatic stresses and suitable to supply a high quantity of food; Infrastructure development for risk reduction and effective response � Infrastructure (such as plastic/ green house for off season vegetable) and marketing development for agro based micro-enterprises development; � Stockpile agricultural inputs and emergency food supplies through establishment of stores (cold stores and zero energy storage) and decentralized food buffer stocks; � Embankment and plantation on river bank areas; � Sloping agricultural land management for soil conservation. Policy development, mainstreaming � Agriculture development policy review in terms of agricultural finance and inputs, small scale irrigation, seed banks, food storage and buffer stock and market from climate change adaptation perspectives; � Promotion of resource efficient technologies (ensuring high income) regarding vegetables, fruits and flower production; � Promotion of pocket area production to back up seed banks and food buffer stocks; � Diversify food dishes of nutritionally rich cultivated and wild food crop species of local origin; � Strengthening marketing institutions and network at strategic centers in different ecological regions (Koshi, Gandak and Karnali river basin); � Enacting pro-farmer land use policy and programs; � Protect local community rights on its natural resources and indigenous knowledge, practice, skill and innovations; Livestock and animal husbandry � Improve performance of piggeries with emphasis on housing, mortality and ration management; � Promote community approach of innovative pasture and rangeland management using locally adapted fodder and forage species; � Improve animal housing, nutrition (based on local feed, fodder and forage supply/ production), disease and parasite management; � Improvement of indigenous breeds of pigs, poultry, goat and sheep; � Studies of climate change impacts on farm animals with particular reference to reproductive cycle, heat period, infertility, diseases/parasites incidences and declining productivity; � Promotion of poultry, dairy, goat and piggery based enterprise linking with urban markets; � Integrate eco-tourism and sport fishing in sustainable community development; 34 Priority Framework for Action Key areas Priority activities Fishery and aquaculture � Fish species conservation especially in rivers used for hydropower and irrigation (improve fish migration); � Public-private partnership in fishery development especially fingerling supply in pond culture; � Improve carrying capacity of natural water bodies (rivers, lakes, reservoirs and other wetlands) for sustainable community fish production and marketing; � Promote poly-culture and integrated pond culture with low-cost and high productivity technology; � Studies on climate change impacts on fishery; � Strengthening livelihoods of ethnic minority dependant on fishing; Awareness raising and local capacity building � Awareness raising campaign on climate change adaptation; � Exposure visits, vocational training and farmers' field school to enhance adaptive capacity of local organizations and communities; Research and Development � Strengthen climate change adaptation research and education; � Promote development of new crop varieties, livestock breeds capable of withstanding emerging climate stresses; Impact assessment and early warning systems � Establish/strengthen agro-meteorological stations representing various agricultural systems; � Establish early warning system based on science, local knowledge and practices; Biodiversity conservation and management � Improvement on climate resilient agricultural biodiversity and indigenous knowledge and innovations. 34 Priority Framework for Action Priority Framework for Action 35 v annex summary oF issues and availaBle oPtions drawn From the consultation workshoP towards PreParation oF naPa Priorities For agriculture and Food security Sector: Agriculture s.n. Key issues identified Technology options available Future needs 1 Less availability of quality seed/saplings/fingerlings varieties of different crops and vegetables � develop location specific stress tolerance varieties � multiplication of seeds/saplings/fingerlings at local level 2 Inadequate irrigation water � micro-irrigation technologies � rainwater harvesting � conservation agriculture � development of efficient irrigation infrastructure � promotion of available technology 3 Decline in soil fertility and productivity � IPNS and ICM � organic farming � Agro-forestry � SALT technology � promotion of available technology � further research 4 Increased incidence of pests and diseases � IDM/IPM � bio-pesticides � promotion of IDM/IPM � promotion of bio-pesticides � judicious use of chemical pesticides 5 Loss of agro-biodiversity (landraces and underutilized /indigenous crops � in-situ and ex-situ conservation � conservation, utilization, improvement and promotion of existing/ promising landraces and underutilized crops/vegetables 6 Lack of location specific technology/ research � indigenous technology � verification of indigenous technology � development of location specific agricultural technologies � strengthen agricultural research systems and network 7 Lack of climate change related information � indigenous knowledge � agro-meteorological information � establishment of sufficient agro-meteorological stations � institutional set-up from field to central level to access information products 8 Inadequate coverage of extension � extension network � printed mass media � audio-visuals � strengthen extension services 9 Less attention to indigenous knowledge/ practices � local level farmers knowledge and technologies � documentation, verification and promotion of indigenous knowledge 10 Inadequate post-harvest and marketing support � new post harvest facility /technology � strengthen post-harvest and market facilities 11 Crop insurance and support price � none � introduce crop insurance and support price 12 Lack of community awareness in CCA and DRM � inadequate knowledge � technologies for CCA and DRM � Strengthen institutional and technical capacities � field demonstration of good practices 13 Early warning system � weather and climate forecasts � introduce new weather and climate forecasts for agricultural applications 36 Priority Framework for Action Secctor: Livestock Livestock Technology options available Future needs Poor emergence and low production of forage crops, Degradation of Pasture Land, Increased Disease prevalence, vector Borne Diseases, Parasitic Diseases, Eroding breeds Shortage of feed ingredients, heat stress, etc., Improved varieties of fodder and forage crops Sustainable land management; timely vaccination of animals; improved feed and ingredients Support integrated approach for producing fodder crops Strengthen livestock support services promoting pro-active risk management/ reduction measures Priority Framework for Action 37 vi annex strategies For drm in agriculture and Food sector Ensure that disaster risk reduction is a national and a local priority with a strong institutional basis for implementation Identify, assess and monitor disaster risks and enhance early warning Better Knowledge Management for Building a culture of Safety Reducing Risks in Key Sectors and Establish ment of Mechanisms for DRM Enhance prepared ness for Effective Response The MOAC is to develop a national plan for Disaster Preparedness and Emergency response for the Agricultural sector, with templates for district and community level plans included for areas highly exposed to recurrent hazard risk. The plans should be prepared in a participatory dialogue with all stakeholders and be available in the public domain. The MOAC should ensure that DRM issues are integrated into district agriculture and village agriculture plans. Enhance under the leadership of the Min. of Home Affairs DRM related coordination between MOAC and its departments and offices at the district levels as well as with other line agencies at all levels. Enhance operational and technical capacities of agriculture offices operating at district and area level on disaster risk management. Mandate the Agricultural departments and offices at decentralized levels to participate as key partners in DRM committees at all levels, and as implementing partners of actions jointly decided by the committees at different levels. Conduct and coordinate with other sectors hazard risk and vulnerability assessment studies and mapping exercises in the agricultural sectors. Establish a simple crop and livestock monitoring system and data base in high risk areas to establish a basis for better emergency needs assessment and response. Translate weather and climate forecast products (from Department of Meteorology) into agricultural impact forecast products and strategic decision support tools for farmers in (slow on-setting) drought prone areas. Establish in collaboration with the Water Dep. a flood and landslide early warning system for local levels. Develop a DRM related communication strategy in agriculture to ensure timely dissemination of early warning and strategic decision support information to farmers. Promote economic assessment studies to monitor the costs of mitigation and adaptation to risk (as compared to losses). Identify and document good practices for DRM in agriculture, including existing coping practices and indigenous technologies. Strengthen agricultural research institutions to conduct strategic, applied research to identify and promote on farmers fields the testing of new technologies for DRM in agriculture. Promote through the existing extension systems the establishment of national platforms for applied action research and demonstration to introduce, test and disseminate good practices for DRM in Agriculture; this includes the promotion of Local Farmers Organizations and CBOs in implementing community based disaster risk management approaches and initiatives within the AG sector. Promote insurance practices for crops, and livestock in participation of private sector. Include DRM issues into the curricula of agricultural campuses, and at school levels. Improve local storage practice (farm level food, animal feed, local seeds storage systems). Promote improvement of strategic seed banks and national seeds storage system. Encourage to convert land slide areas in to plantation, discourage settlements in the flood prone areas. Invest on river training especially to reduce flood related risks. Promote land and water conservation practices on farmers’ fields. Increase irrigation coverage where water resources are available without negative impacts on ground water. Encourage the use of crops and livestock species and of integrated production systems which are more resistant to natural hazard risks, and diseases. Improve construction standards for animal shelters and hen pens including spatial locations guidelines. Discourage agricultural practices that lead to disaster. Promote regular contingency planning (from AG perspective) at all levels. Ensure adequate emergency supply of food/ seeds in the disaster prone areas in time of need. Standardize the content/ format of information collection on disaster impacts. Ensure faster Damage assessment and mobilization of resources. Promote the establishment of strategic emergency buffer stocks of seeds, food, and agricultural inputs in District Agricultural Offices or at regional level. Build capacity to know the risks at all levels. Formulate definitions and indicators and triggers about the declaration of emergency situations in AG / food security and phasing of emergency response. 38 Priority Framework for Action institutional strengths, gaPs and Policy Framework For cca and drm in agriculture vii annex The MOAC has a strong technical manpower from the national to the grass root level. It has two De partments, namely the Department of Agriculture (DOA) and the Department of Livestock Services (DLS). More than 10 000 staffs of various categories are working closely with farming communities at all levels. The comparative advantages of both depart ments are significant in terms of its human resource capacity. The MOAC could take a crucial role in climate change adaptation and disaster risk manage ment planning and implementation of prioritized activities. The table 2 summarizes MOAC/DOA/DLS strengths related to the area of DRR and CCA. The summary tables clearly suggest the comparative ad vantage of MOAC for making a shift from a reactive emergency approach to a proactive risk management at all levels. The strengths of MOAC to engage more actively in DRM outweigh its current weaknesses. It is important to better understand how to integrate and use MOAC strengths for better DRM in the agri cultural sector and how to overcome its weaknesses. Strengths of MOAC, DOA and DLS with regard to its role in CCA and DRM (a) Institutional Strengths Remarks MOAC\DOA\DLS have human resources to contribute at all levels in Nepal for DRR and CCA More than 10 000 staffs are working with different capacities. Good infrastructure in the form of MOAC\DOA\DLS offices at various levels. DOA has strong linkages to a large number of people in rural area. MOAC\DOA\DLS are at various levels already engaged in emergency response and rehabilitation activities. DOA\DLS field officials have regular exposure in dealing with climate extremes and in providing relief to the agricultural community. DOA\DLS operates training institutes throughout the country which can be utilized for training on climate change adaptation and disaster risk management DOA\DLS each have five Regional Training Center and those centers can be used for training on DRM and CCA activities. Efforts are underway to integrate sessions on CCA and DRM into regular activities. Availability of basic data; agricultural data base A data base in the form of crop area, yield and production for all 75 districts are all available at Agribusiness, Promotion and Statistics Division in the MOAC. The quality of data, specially, district level should be improved by strengthening the Division. Communication mechanisms of MOAC The MOAC has an agricultural and communication center which collects and disseminates the agricultural information at all levels. MOAC has the mandate to transfer agriculture technology through mass media like radio, TV, documentary film and is well equipped with technologies and able of delivering good knowledge and information dissemination up to grass root level. These facilities available with MOAC are suitable to be used in the context of DRM and CCA. Coordination within MOAC\DOA\DLS and Collaboration with other stakeholders Existing linkage between research institutes and rural communities MOAC has five Divisions. The Gender Equity and Environment Division (GEED) is responsible to look after DRM and CCA. Similarly DOA has three Divisions and Planning and Human Resource Division is responsible to look after DRR and CCA. The DLS has four Directorates. The Planning Section looks after DRM and CCA. Nepal Agriculture Research Council (NARC) is directly under MOAC. NARC does all the research activities in agriculture and their outputs are disseminated by DOA and DLS. The key components of the research extension linkage system and outreach coordination are also linked with DADO and DLSO. Priority Framework for Action 39 (a) Institutional Strengths Remarks A strong institutional basis for implementation of CCA and DRM a) Strengthening of GEED at MOAC, b) Establishment of cell/desk at DOA c) Establishment of cell/desk at DLS, d) capacity development at NARC e) Capacity development at DADO, DLSO (b) Technical strengths Remarks Sound technical knowhow in agriculture The MOAC\DOA\DLS staffs at HQ and field level are well trained and experienced in tackling agriculture related problems. They are also fully aware of disaster problems and are involved in managing disaster response. With some additional training on climate change adaptation and DRM, they could also contribute to disaster prevention and preparedness and climate change adaptation in the agriculture sector. Practical experience in the application of a range of extension and awareness raising methods MOAC\DOA\DLS is well experienced with a range of extension methods to interact with the target groups, including mass and folk media, agriculture fairs; group discussion, farmer field training and farmers field schools, demonstrations and field visits. Research Center, NARC, under the MOAC, in charge of developing new technologies Experimental farms are available to develop and test varieties that are more resistant to flood, drought or salinity. A key aspect of DRR and CCA is to be intensified and further spread. Development and research projects implementation by MOAC MOAC has been involved in implementing a number of projects (both development and research). Some of these projects are directly or indirectly related to CCA and DRM activities. The outputs and experiences of such projects, available to MOAC can be used for CCA and DRM in agriculture very efficiently. Limitations/shortcomings of MOAC to support in CCA and DRM9 Institutional and technical gaps Remarks Lack of flexibility in decision making The management system is vertical and all decisions are referred to higher authorities, making it sometimes difficult to respond to local needs in a short time. No action plan available at present for CCA and DRM in agriculture Though MOAC is deeply involved in disaster response and relief activities, yet it was not much concerned about systematic disaster preparedness and mitigation aspects until recently. There are few initiatives regarding pre-disaster preparedness, which are not sufficient. The culture of preventive measures for disaster lacks within the department. MOAC staff have very limited practical experiences in climate change adaptation and proactive disaster preparedness and prevention activities A mechanism for continuous learning through the practical field demonstrations are needed towards institutionalizing CCA and DRM within the MOAC. The funding for CCA and DRR activities are not sufficient in the current system There is no regular budgeting provision for CCA and DRM related activities. Wherever funds are available for some activities, they are not sufficient. No mechanism for continuous capacity development on CCA and DRM. Institutional strengthening and integration of climate change and disaster risk management in regular capacity development activities of MOAC, DOA and DLS is the priority. Priority Framework for Action 39 9 The points cited in the table are the outcome of a number of meetings and discussion held within MOAC and with field officials. 40 Priority Framework for Action List of Workshop Participants SN Name Designation Office 1 Mr. Vijoy Kumar Mallick DG DOA 2 Mr. Bishnu Aryal Project Manager/DDG DOA 3 Mr. Kanchan Pandey Senior. Agri. Extn. Officer DOA 4 Mr Shashi Ratna Shakya Senior Planning Officer DLS 6 Dr. Selvaraju Ramasamy Technical Officer FAO-HQ 5 Dr. Stephan Baas Technical Officer FAO-HQ 7 Dr. Deepak Mani Pokharel Senior Hort. Officer MOAC 8 Mr. Nar Gopal Rai Team Leader Practical Action 9 Ms. Maushmi Sherestha Comity Manager Practical Action 10 Dr. Tara Nidhi Bhattrai Co-ordinator NDRI 11 Ms. Jwala Pandey Project Associate UNDP 12 Mr. Erkki Kumpula Program Officer FAO 13 Dr. Krishna Raj Regmi National Field Expert FAO 14 Mr. Dan Bahadur Singh National Consultant FAO 15 Dr. Janak Lal Nayava National Coordinator FAO Mid-term workshop of the TCP/NEP/32021 (D) project; November 25th 2009, Kathmandu List of Workshop Participants SNo. Name Designation Office 1 Mr. Bijoy Kumar Mallik DG DOA 2 Dr. Prabhakar Pathak DG DLS 3 Mr. Bishnu Parsad Aryal DDG DOA 4 Mr. Hem Raj Regmi Senior Statistician MOAC 5 Mrs. Bidya Pandey SHDO MOAC 6 Ms. Jyotsna Shrestha FRO MOAC 7 Mr. Kamal.Prasad. Bhudhatoki SDM DHM 8 Mr. Kanchan Raj Pandey Sr. Agri. Extn. Officer DOA 9 Ms. Jayanti K. Bhusal Agri Extn. officer DOA 10 Mr. Bimal Raj Regmi DFID 11 Mr. Basanta Rayamajhi SDE Min.of. Irrigation 12 Mr. Nar Gopal Rai DDRMP Team leader Practical Action 13 Mr. Prem Bdr. Thapa PPQA Manager Practical Action 14 Miss. Jwala Pandey UNDP 15 Mr. Avadh Kishor Deo FM FAO, Siraha 16 Mr. Ram Prakash Mahato Crop Dev. Officer ADO, Siraha 17 Mr. Shiva Prashad Rijal Planning officer ADO, Arghakhanchi 18 Mr. Yam Narayan Devkota Senior Agri officer ADO, Arghakhanchi 19 Mr. Bishnu Raj Tandan Agri. Ext. Officer ADO, Arghakhanchi 20 Mr. Chudamani Bhattrai Agri. Officer DADO, Udaypur list oF workshoPs, meetings and contriButors For the Priority Framework For action 1st Brain Storming Workshop November 18th 2009, Kathmandu Priority Framework for Action 41 SNo. Name Designation Office 21 Mr. Satye Deo Mandal Agri. Officer DADO, Udaypur 22 Mr. Tej Narayan Chaudhari Senior Agri officer DADO, Udaypur 23 Dr. Tara Nidhi Bhattrai NARC NDRI 24 Mr. Shalik Ram Gautam Agri. Officer ADO, Banke 25 Mr. Kamal Kant Jha Senior Agri officer ADO, Banke 26 Mr. Yadav Pdhyoti Planning officer ADO, Banke 27 Mr. Bishnu Pd. Kafle Crop Dev. Officer ADO, Kapilbastu 28 Mr. Narendra Rana Field Monitor FAO, Kapilbastu 29 Mr. Khursidh A. Khan Senior Agri officer ADO, Kapilbastu 30 Mr. Kamal Keshr Khanal Planning officer ADO, Surkhet 31 Mr. Bijay Kumar Giri AEO DADO- Surkhet 32 Mr. Ram Pd. Gautam Senior Agri officer ADO, Surket 33 Dr. Dhoj Raj Khanal NARC 34 Dr. Anand KumarGautam Chief/SR.Scientist NARC 35 Dr. Selvaraju Ramasamy NRC FAOHQ, Rome 36 Dr. Krishna Raj Regmi National Expert FAO 37 Dr. Janak Lal Nayava National Coordinator FAO 38 Mr. Errki Kumpula Program Officer FAO 39 Mr. Dan Bahadur Singh National Consultant FAO First Stakeholder Workshop 14 January 2010, Kathmandu List of Workshop Participants SN Name Designation Office 1 Dr. Braja Kishor Prasad Shah Secretary MOAC 2 Dr. Hari Dahal Joint Secretary MOAC 3 Mr.Vijoy Kumar Mallick DG DOA 4 Mr. Bishnu Aryal Project Manager/DDG DOA 5 Mr.Shankar Koirala Joint Secretary MoHA 6 Mr.Arun Shankar Ranjit DDG DLS 7 Dr. Nar Bahadur Rajwar DDG DLS 8 Mr.Shashi Ratna Shakya Sr. Planning Officer DLS 9 Mr.Kanchan Pandey Sr. Agri. Extn. Officer DOA 10 Ms.Rameela Sherrstha Sr. Agri.Officer, Planning DOA 11 Mr.Rabindra B. Pradhan Sr. Agri.Officer, Planning DOA 12 Dr. Deepak Manni Pokharel Sr. Hort. Extn. Officer MOAC 13 Mrs Bidya Pandey Sr. Hort.Extn. Officer MOAC 14 Mr.Hem Raj Regmi Senior Statistician MOAC 15 Mr.Saroj P. Aryal Senior GIS officer MOAC 16 Mr.Nar Gopal Rai Team Leader Practical Action 17 Mr.Gehendra Gurung Program Leader Practical Action 18 Mr.Ravi Singh National Expert 19 Dr. Deepak Rijal Facilitator NAPA ,MOAE 20 Dr. Pashupati Paudel Resource Economist NDRI 21 Dr. Keshab Prasad Sharma DDG DHM 22 Mr.Niranjan Tamrakar Early Rec. Coordinator UNDP 23 Ms.Jwala Pandey Project Associate UNDP 24 Dr. Krishna Raj Regmi National Expert FAO 25 Ms. Naina Dhakal Senior Agri. Economist DOA 26 Dr. Anand Kumar Gautam Environmental officer NARC 27 Dr. Janak Lal Nayava National Coordinator FAO 42 Priority Framework for Action Second Stakeholder Workshop 23 February 2010, Kathmandu List of Workshop Participants SN Name Designation Office 1 Dr. Hari Dahal Joint Secretary MOAC 2 Mr.Tek Bahadur Thapa Ex. Secretary MOAC 3 Mr. Bishnu Aryal Project Manager/DDG DOA 4 Dr. Nar Bahadur Rajwar DDG DLS 5 Mr. Tek Bahadur Gurung Director NARC 6 Dr. Deepak Mani Pokharel Senior Hort.Extn. Officer MOAC 7 Mr. Gauri Sankar Bassi Chief (CPE) SMTP (DOI) 8 Dr. Anand Kumar Gautam Environmental officer NARC 9 Mr.Kanchan Raj Pandey Sr. Agri. Extn. Officer DOA 10 Mr. Hem Raj Regmi Senior Statistician MOAC 11 Mrs. Bidya Pandey Sr. Hort. Extn. Officer MOAC 12 Mr Kamal.Prasad Bhudhatoki SDM DHM 13 Dr. Tanka.Prasad. Barakoti Senior Scientist NARC 14 Dr. Shree Ram Neupane Project Director LI-BIRD 15 Dr. Doj Raj Khanal Senior Scientist NARC 16 Mr. G. Malla S.T.O NARC 17 Ms.Anupa Sharma Agri. Economist DLS 18 Dr. Tara Nidhi Bhattrai Co-ordinator NDRI 19 Ms. Maushmi Shrestha Comity Manager Practical Action 20 Mr. Gehendra Gurung Program Leader Practical Action 21 Ms.Ganga Thapa Member NIWF 22 Mr. Kamalesh Adhikari Research Director SAWTEE 23 Dr. Deepak Rijal Facilitator NAPA, MOAC 24 Mr.Puspa Raj Jiwa Senior P.O LI-BIRD 25 Ms. Jwala Pandey Project Associate UNDP 26 Mr. Ravi Singh National Expert CBS 27 Mr. Dan Bahadur Singh National Consultant FAO 28 Mr. Erkki Kumpula Program Officer FAO 29 Mr.Shrawan Adhikary Program Officer FAO 30 Dr. Krishna Raj Regmi National Field Expert FAO 31 Dr. Janak Lal Nayava National Coordinator FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations UN House, Pulchowk P.O. Box 25, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: +977-1-5523239 Fax : +977-1-5526358 Email: FAO-NP@fao.org Website: www.fao.org/world/Nepal Climate, Energy and Tenure Division (NRC) Viale delle Terme di Caracalla 00153 Rome, Italy Email Climate-Change@fao.org Website: http://www.fao.org/climatechange/en/ d es ig n & p ri n tp ro d u ct io n : w p s, 5 55 59 89 , p ri n tn ep al @ g m ai l.c o m Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management Priority Framework for Action : 2011 - 2020 A comprehensive priority framework to support and provide strategic direction to the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, its technical services and agencies for the implementation of Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management (DRM) priorities in Agriculture and allied sectors. Government of Nepal Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC) Singha Durbar, Kathmandu, Nepal. Phone: 977-1-4211706, 4211950, 4211981 Fax: 977-1- 4211935, E-mail: memoac@moac.gov.np Website: www.moac.gov.np