The Government of India has recently granted approval for the ratification of the Headquarters Agreement (HQA) between India and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). This significant step further strengthens India’s commitment to disaster resilience and sustainable development.
Background:
The CDRI was launched by the Honorable Prime Minister of India during the United Nations Climate Action Summit in September 2019. It is a global partnership comprising national governments, United Nations agencies, multilateral development banks, the private sector, and academic and research institutions. The CDRI aims to enhance the resilience of infrastructure systems to climate and disaster risks, thereby ensuring sustainable development.
Ratification of Headquarters Agreement:
The ratification of the Headquarters Agreement between the Government of India and the CDRI allows for the granting of exemptions, immunities, and privileges as outlined in Section 3 of the United Nations (Privileges & Immunities) Act, 1947. This agreement provides the necessary legal framework for the functioning of CDRI’s Secretariat in India and enables it to carry out its mission effectively.
Government Support and Financial Assistance:
The Indian government had previously approved the establishment of CDRI and its supporting Secretariat in New Delhi on August 28, 2019. Additionally, financial support of Rs. 480 crore was allocated to CDRI over a period of five years from 2019-20 to 2023-24. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting global initiatives that address climate change and disaster resilience.
Recognition as an International Organization:
The Cabinet’s decision on June 29, 2022, recognized CDRI as an International Organization and authorized the signing of the Headquarters Agreement for granting CDRI exemptions, immunities, and privileges as outlined in the UN (P&I) Act, 1947. This recognition further solidifies CDRI’s position as a global entity working towards enhancing infrastructure resilience.
About CDRI:
CDRI brings together various stakeholders to collaboratively work towards enhancing disaster resilience. Since its launch, 31 countries, six international organizations, and two private sector organizations have joined CDRI as members. The coalition includes renowned institutions such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), World Bank Group, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), European Union, European Investment Bank, Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies, and Coalition for Climate Resilient Investment.
India’s Global Leadership:
The CDRI initiative reflects India’s commitment to global climate action and disaster resilience. It serves as India’s second major global initiative after the International Solar Alliance and highlights the nation’s leadership in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development. India’s involvement in CDRI underscores its determination to build resilient infrastructure systems that can withstand climate and disaster risks.