Background

The United Nations Joint Initiative is developed to support the state in managing the fragile ecosystem of north eastern region which is facing stress due to growing population and effects of climate change. This initiative is led by UNIDO and will build on past experience as well as the presence and expertise of UNDP, ILO, FAO, IFAD and UNIDO, and will address one of the common concerns of states and has the potential to address several key issues and help the state government to:

(i) better management of natural resources and address local issues of providing work opportunities to the youth from natural resource management and preserving the bio-diversity in the region,

(ii) address common trans-boundary threats from tree and plant pests, animal diseases to local vegetation and livestock,

(iii) address issues of farm and non-farm employment,

(iv)preserve the indigenous knowledge for resource management and increase the yield of crops and other forest produce such as bamboo

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the overall supervision of the FAOR India, technical supervision of Animal Health Officer (FAO RAP), direct technical supervision of the consulting Sr. Animal Health Adviser/ Animal Health Training Expert, and in close collaboration with NLUP and UN Joint Initiative Coordinator, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following duties:

 

  1. Assist the overall project secretariat to implement UN Joint Activities, especially in relationship to FAO’s contribution under the TCP and additional inputs overtime.
  2. Assist National Consultant- Animal Health Training Expert/ Sr. Animal Health Advisor to implement outreach activities under TCP Outputs 2 including impact assessment.
  3. Collect and Collate information received from the community facilitators daily on all working days and every day in the event of any outbreak of the disease (Especially PRRS/ TADs) and share with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, GOM.
  4. Broadcast SMS to each community facilitator at least twice a week about the receipt/non receipt of the information.
  5. Assist in communications on project activities including success stories and developing e-network with stakeholders.
  6. Assist the RAP/FAO TSS officers plan and undertake expert mission.
  7. Assist the NLUP prepare progress reports, monitor budgets, organize regular project meetings with stakeholders.
  8. Prepare a case study focusing on gender roles in pig value chain.
  9. Gather information and data on animal diseases from the field collate and help the Animal Health Training Expert/ Sr. Animal Health Advisor in disseminating the same to concerned agencies like FAO/ NLUP/Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Mizoram.
  10. Perform any other duties assigned by the UN Joint Initiative Coordinator or the designated UN agency official 
  11. Maintains regular communication and working relationship with the country office of UN agencies in New Delhi.
  12. Participate in meetings with state government departments, communities and as an observer in the Steering Committee meetings. Document the minutes and share them with Programme Manager and UN joint programme coordinator in New Delhi
  13. Provide a written report in English within two weeks of conclusion of each mission. The report should give a clear summary of recommendations and conclusions and points for follow-up.

 

Furthermore, UN Volunteers are encouraged to:

 

  • Strengthen their knowledge and understanding of the concept of volunteerism by reading relevant UNV and external publications and take active part in UNV activities (for instance in events that mark IVD);
  • Be acquainted with and build on traditional and/or local forms of volunteerism in the host country;
  • Reflect on the type and quality of voluntary action that they are undertaking, including participation in ongoing reflection activities;
  • Contribute articles/write-ups on field experiences and submit them for UNV publications/websites, newsletters, press releases, etc.;
  • Assist with the UNV Buddy Programme for newly-arrived UN Volunteers;
  • Promote or advise local groups in the use of online volunteering, or encourage relevant local individuals and organizations to use the UNV Online Volunteering service whenever technically possible.

 

Results/Expected Output:

 

  • Enhanced capacity of government to deliver sustainable animal husbandry practices through prevention and control of animal disease especially PRRS and TADS  to communities and improve their livelihood, economic growth and food security.
  • Capacity of local NGOs, women and other relevant stakeholders developed for noticing and timely reporting the outbreaks/diseases in animals from their village/locality to the nearest veterinary institution.

Competencies

  • Good analytical skills, good communications and inter-personal skills and the ability to work under pressure, both independently and as part of a team
  • Fluency in English (required) and Mizo (highly desirable).

Required Skills and Experience

  • A degree in Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry from a recognized University included in the first and second Schedule of  the Indian Veterinary Council Act 1984.
  • Registered with Veterinary Council of India or any State Veterinary Council. 
  • Significant practical experience and a good working knowledge of extension activities. Experience of working with government is desirable;
  • Good knowledge of computer, collection of data on animal diseases, collate and analyse.
  • Experience and motivation for volunteerism and experience of working with villagers will be considered as asset.
  • Experience of working in north-eastern part of India will be considered as a distinct advantage.

 

The state of Mizoram is a true frontier region. It shares 722 km of international border with Bangladesh, Myanmar and is connected with three other north-eastern states of Assam, Manipur and Tripura. Mizoram became the 23rd  state of the Indian Union in 1987 after signing of the Mizoram Peace Accord in 1986. Aizawl is the capital city with a population of 291,000. It is situated on a ridge 1,132 metres (3715 ft) above sea level, with the Tlawng river valley to its west and the Tuirial river valley to its east. Aizawl has a mild, sub-tropical climate due to its location and elevation, and receives heavy rains from May to September.

 

A 12-month contract; monthly volunteer living allowance (VLA) intended to cover housing, basic needs and utilities, equivalent to INR 39,584/- per month; settling-in-grant (if applicable); life, health, and permanent disability insurance; return airfares (if applicable); resettlement allowance for satisfactory service.

 

This position is open to applicants of either sex. Preference will be given to equally qualified women candidates. Only short listed candidates would be contacted.

 

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is the UN organization that promotes volunteerism to support peace and development worldwide. In all assignments, UN Volunteers promote volunteerism through their action and conduct. Engaging in volunteer activity can effectively and positively enrich their understanding of local and social realities, as well as create a bridge between themselves and the people in their host community.