Deadline: 16-Apr-2026
UNICEF invites organizations to support the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Jharkhand in strengthening climate-resilient and sustainable WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) services. The initiative focuses on institutional capacity building, climate-smart planning, equity, inclusive service delivery, and knowledge management, aiming to enhance governance and long-term sustainability of WASH systems at state and district levels.
The program provides technical assistance rather than direct implementation, targeting state-level systems and selected districts. It aims to strengthen institutional structures, improve governance, and integrate climate resilience into WASH service delivery, while promoting equity, community engagement, and knowledge sharing.
Program Objectives
The initiative focuses on:
- Institutional strengthening and capacity building of urban local bodies and relevant stakeholders
- Climate-resilient WASH planning, including risk assessments and adaptive monitoring frameworks
- Sanitation asset management and operations support to ensure effective and sustainable maintenance
- Equity and inclusive service delivery for marginalized groups
- Knowledge management and documentation to capture best practices, policy insights, and lessons learned
- Coordination and convergence between WASH services and climate change/environmental priorities
Scope of Engagement
Key responsibilities for selected organizations include:
- Developing standardized training modules and conducting training-of-trainers programs
- Building competencies of government officials, frontline workers, and key stakeholders
- Supporting district-level participatory planning to integrate climate resilience in WASH systems
- Facilitating monitoring frameworks for sustainable service delivery
- Promoting social and behavior change communication campaigns to strengthen community-centered practices
- Documenting case studies, evidence-based practices, and policy guidance for future replication
Expected Outcomes
Organizations collaborating under this initiative are expected to contribute to:
- Enhanced institutional capacity across state and district governance structures
- Establishment of climate-resilient WASH systems
- Strengthened monitoring, accountability, and reporting frameworks
- Improved equity and inclusion, ensuring marginalized communities are effectively served
- Increased community engagement in sustainable water and sanitation practices
- Improved coordination between WASH and climate/environment initiatives
Who Should Apply
Eligible applicants include:
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with technical expertise in WASH and climate resilience
- Research and knowledge-based institutions that support capacity building, monitoring, and evaluation
- Organizations capable of working in collaboration with state departments and local stakeholders
Why It Matters
This initiative strengthens the resilience and sustainability of WASH services in Jharkhand, ensuring communities have reliable, climate-adaptive water and sanitation systems. By integrating equity, inclusive service delivery, and knowledge management, the program aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6 & 13) and fosters long-term governance and community engagement.
How to Apply / Engage
- Confirm organizational eligibility and expertise in WASH and climate-resilient programming
- Prepare a technical proposal detailing capacity-building strategies, district engagement plans, and monitoring frameworks
- Outline experience in inclusive service delivery and knowledge management
- Submit the expression of interest as per UNICEF’s application guidelines
- Collaborate with the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation upon selection
Tips for Successful Applications
- Highlight previous WASH or climate-resilience projects with measurable outcomes
- Demonstrate ability to work collaboratively with government agencies
- Include clear capacity-building plans, timelines, and impact indicators
- Emphasize equity, inclusivity, and community engagement strategies
- Provide robust knowledge management approaches, including documentation and replication potential
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this UNICEF initiative?
To strengthen climate-resilient and sustainable WASH services in Jharkhand through capacity building, planning, and technical support.
2. Who can apply?
NGOs, research institutions, and organizations with expertise in WASH, climate resilience, and capacity-building.
3. Will the selected organization implement WASH services directly?
No, the engagement is primarily technical assistance, focusing on strengthening government systems and processes.
4. What geographic areas are covered?
State-level initiatives and selected districts in Jharkhand.
5. What are the key outcomes expected?
Enhanced institutional capacity, climate-resilient systems, equitable service delivery, improved monitoring frameworks, and stronger community engagement.
6. How is climate resilience integrated?
Through district-level planning, risk assessments, adaptive monitoring, and participatory workshops.
7. Are marginalized groups considered in project planning?
Yes, the program emphasizes equity and inclusive service delivery, ensuring vulnerable populations benefit from improved WASH services.
Conclusion
The UNICEF Jharkhand WASH initiative provides a unique opportunity for organizations to enhance sustainable and climate-resilient water and sanitation services through institutional strengthening, community engagement, and knowledge sharing. This effort contributes to long-term governance, community well-being, and alignment with global sustainability goals.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.