U.S. Commits Another $1 Million (Rs. 4.3 Crores) to Disaster Relief in Tamil Nadu

January 24, 2005

NEW DELHI -- The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) today committed another nearly $1 million (Rs. 4.35 crores) to tsunami response in Tamil Nadu - increasing U.S. assistance to nearly $3.8 million (Rs. 16.53 crores). Newly funded non-governmental (NGO) partners based in India will focus on reinvigorating local industries - particularly fishing - generating employment and providing immediate "cash-for-work" income.

A $250,000 (Rs. 1.09 crores) grant to the non-governmental organization GOAL will conduct cash-for-work efforts that rehabilitate affected villages - repairing damaged properties, thatching roofs, organizing debris, etc. Childcare centers will be established to allow mothers to earn income.
It expects to reach 3,000 people.

A grant of $280,000 (Rs.1.2 crores) is committed to Food for the Hungry, through its local NGO partner EFICOR, to conduct "cash-for-work" projects. Work to rehabilitate wells and ponds, and replant trees will be exchanged for income to meet daily needs, or basic assets for trades people. The activity will benefit 3,000 families and 600 trades people.

About 750 families will benefit from a grant of nearly $300, 000 (Rs. 1.3 crores) to ACTED. The NGO aims to restore livelihoods by training 25 self help groups in microfinance for restarting businesses. Some animal care commodities and sewing materials are part of assistance packages, depending on the group's priorities.

Exnora - supported by a $115,000 (Rs. 50 lakhs) grant - will focus on waste removal and recycling in Nagappattinam (one of the hardest hit spots on the coast). Local women and youth are target employees for the jobs effort. Vocational skills for men and women, and ways to expand access to formal banking for residents are part of the activity.

Ongoing response activities valued at $2.8 million (12.18 crores) undertake cash-for-work options for men, women and youth to construct temporary shelters; rehabilitate selected villages; and ensure safe water supplies and adequate sanitation in temporary living quarters. Partners include: World Vision India, Project Concern International/India, CARE India, and Catholic Relief Services (India operations). Funds for immediate relief operations were disbursed to the International Red Cross and the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund just following the event.

The December 26 disaster wreaked havoc on families, livelihoods and communities in the southern state. USAID activities take place in close cooperation with local government officials and a local network of NGO partners. Assistance complements Government of India efforts.