Consultant for Development of a Competency-Based Training Curriculum and Training Package for Flood Water Rescue (FWR)

A. About the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center:

The Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) is an autonomous international organization established for scientific, educational, developmental, and humanitarian purposes with a vision of safer communities and sustainable development through disaster risk reduction and climate resilience in Asia and the Pacific. Established in 1986 as a technical capacity-building center, ADPC has grown and diversified its expertise across social and physical sciences, envisioning safer communities and sustainable development through disaster risk reduction. Being an autonomous international organization governed by the Board of Trustees. It supports sustainable solutions for disaster risk reduction across a broad range of specialist areas, with a wide range of professional expertise from atmospheric scientists to social scientists with experiences from all levels of engagement typically required for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Climate Resilience (CR) effectively.

ADPC’s Strategy 2030 guides the organization in providing comprehensive risk reduction support to countries and communities in Asia and the Pacific with various programs being implemented under 15 strategic themes by three departments, namely the Preparedness and Climate Actions, Risk Analytics and Climate Services, and Risk Governance and Financing. In addition to these, ADPC also works on three cross-cutting themes: Gender and Diversity, Innovation, and Regional and Transboundary Cooperation through permanent working committees. These activities are supported by proactive individual departments of Finance, Human Resources, and Administration. ADPC recognizes the importance of examining the linkages between disaster risk management, poverty reduction, gender equality, sustainability, rights-based approaches, climate change, and regional cooperation. For details, please refer to the ADPC website at http://www.adpc.net.

B. Department Introduction

The Preparedness and Climate Actions (PCA) Department of ADPC focuses on enhancing the preparedness and response management capacities of governments, response organizations, volunteers, non-governmental organizations, the private sector, communities, and other traditional and non-traditional actors of the Disaster Risk Management Ecosystem. It also strives to strengthen the capacity of institutions and at-risk communities for faster and more efficient disaster recovery. The department works with the above-stated actors to ensure that the regional, national, sub-national, and local disaster preparedness, response, and recovery frameworks and implementation plans are in place well before disaster strikes.

C. Statement of Intent

The Institutional Strengthening through Preparedness and Inclusive Response in India (INSPIRE) Program is a collaborative initiative by the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC), the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and state institutions in Odisha, Gujarat, and Kerala. The program aims to enhance institutional systems for disaster preparedness and climate action at the national and state levels, while contributing to regional cooperation in the Bay of Bengal.

Through INSPIRE, ADPC works closely with national and state-level stakeholders to promote risk-informed planning, strengthen local capacities, and support sustainable disaster management practices. The program focuses on advancing institutional leadership and technical capacities within strategic government institutions, enabling them to play a central role in managing disasters and responding to climate shocks. It also fosters the development of innovative, data-driven solutions and promotes cross-learning through structured regional collaboration.

In this context, ADPC seeks to engage an Individual Consultant to support the development of a competency-based curriculum framework and prototype training package for Flood Water Rescue (FWR) for the NDRF.

The Consultant will support the development of a structured competency-based Flood Water Rescue (FWR) curriculum framework and prototype training package aligned with NDRF operational requirements, training doctrine, and internationally recognized standards and methodologies for flood and water rescue operations. Delivery of training courses is not included within the scope of this consultancy.

The assignment will also support the development of technical recommendations related to training infrastructure, simulation facilities, and operational training environments required for practical FWR training within the NDRF Training Academy in Nagpur. The curriculum and training package shall also provide for the safe conduct of practical training in suitable alternative water environments, including rivers, dams, reservoirs, canals, and other appropriate water bodies, where dedicated swift-water training infrastructure is unavailable or not yet operational.

D. Expected Outputs

At the completion of the assignment, the Individual Consultant will submit:

1. One complete competency-based FWR training package, including:
   1. Facilitator Guide
   2. Participant Workbook
   3. Training Slide Deck
   4. Exercise and Simulation Guide
   5. Training Evaluation and Assessment Tools
   6. Reference and Resource Compendium
2. Technical recommendations report on:
   1. FWR training facility design
   2. Simulation and practical exercise infrastructure
   3. Equipment and supply requirements
   4. Safety and risk management considerations
3. Additional Outputs:
   1. Training of Trainers (ToT) outputs
   2. Pilot assessment findings
   3. Final completion report

All deliverables in editable formats (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, PDF, and other relevant formats)

E. Responsibilities and Tasks:

The Individual Consultant will provide technical expertise and instructional design support to ADPC and NDRF in developing a structured competency-based Flood Water Rescue (FWR) curriculum framework and associated training package.

The Consultant shall ensure that all curriculum components and learning materials are operationally relevant, competency-based, and aligned with applicable national and international standards.

The assignment focuses exclusively on curriculum development, instructional design inputs, and technical recommendations related to training facilities and simulation infrastructure. The curriculum and training package should support both classroom-based and practical field-based training delivery modalities. Practical training modalities shall include provisions for conducting exercises in dedicated training facilities as well as in suitable natural or managed water bodies, subject to site suitability, operational requirements, and approved safety and risk-management measures.

1. Technical Collaboration and Coordination

The consultant will:

• Work closely with ADPC technical leads, the NDRF Technical Curriculum Working Group (TCWG), and other FWR subject matter experts throughout the assignment.
• Participate in technical consultations, curriculum review sessions, validation workshops, and coordination meetings organized by ADPC and NDRF.
• Ensure all outputs reflect operational realities, NDRF doctrine, field practices, and institutional requirements.
• Maintain regular coordination with the consultant architect responsible for the design and conceptualization of the NDRF Training Academy in Nagpur to provide technical recommendations related to FWR training infrastructure and simulation requirements.

2. Curriculum Framework Development

The Consultant will develop a structured competency-based curriculum framework for Flood Water Rescue (FWR). The curriculum framework shall define:

• Training objectives and expected operational competencies
• Target participants and competency levels
• Course structure and module sequencing
• Learning outcomes
• Instructional methodologies
• Requirements and criteria for conducting practical training in dedicated facilities and, where such facilities are unavailable, in suitable alternative water environments such as rivers, dams, reservoirs, canals, and other approved water bodies
• Assessment approaches and performance verification methods
• Recommended duration and delivery modalities
• Indicative balance between classroom instruction, simulation-based learning, technology-enabled learning, and field-based practical exercises
• Define and propose an indicative pedagogical approach for the training program, including the recommended balance among:
  • Self-paced online learning;
  • Instructor-led classroom instruction;
  • Technology-enabled learning approaches (including audiovisual learning, VR/AR-based simulation, or immersive learning where feasible);
  • Simulation-based practical exercises; and
  • Field-based hands-on operational training in dedicated training facilities or suitable natural and managed water bodies, as operationally appropriate

The curriculum framework shall align with the competency standards developed under the INSPIRE India Program and support institutionalization within the NDRF Academy training system.

The Consultant shall recommend indicative ratios between theoretical (“know-how”) instruction and practical (“show-how”) application components appropriate to the competency level and operational objectives of each module.

3. Development of Interactive Training Packages

The Consultant will support the development of a comprehensive prototype training package for Flood Water Rescue (FWR), designed for operational training delivery by the NDRF Academy and associated training institutions.

The Consultant will work closely with the pedagogical materials development specialist to design and structure all training products.

The training package should promote interactive and practice-oriented learning methodologies, including:

• Scenario-based learning
• Simulation-based learning
• Technology-enabled learning approaches, including audiovisual demonstrations and immersive learning methods, where feasible
• Practical field exercises in controlled training environments and suitable natural or managed water bodies
• Skills stations and demonstrations
• Group problem-solving exercises
• Operational case studies
• Facilitated discussions and after-action reflection

Training materials should integrate references to audiovisual resources, operational videos, technical diagrams, digital learning tools, field checklists, and relevant operational guidance.

The prototype training package shall include the following components: The training package will include:

• Facilitator Guide

The Facilitator Guide (FG) shall include:

• Session-by-session facilitation guidance
• Learning objectives and expected competencies
• Suggested instructional methodologies
• Site-selection and setup requirements for training conducted in rivers, dams, reservoirs, canals, and other approved water bodies
• Safety, rescue standby, communication, medical support, and emergency withdrawal guidelines for open-water training
• Guidance on instructor-to-participant ratios for practical sessions
• Facilitation notes and operational considerations
• Guidance for conducting practical exercises and simulations
• Participant Workbook

A learner-oriented workbook containing:

• Structured learning summaries
• Key operational concepts
• Technical illustrations, operational diagrams, and visual learning aids
• Practical exercises and reflection activities
• Operational checklists and field reference tools
• Recommended reading and audiovisual references
• Training Evaluation and Assessment Tools

The Consultant shall develop competency-based evaluation tools, including:

• Pre-training assessment (Pre-Test): To establish participants' baseline knowledge and competency levels.
• Post-training assessment (Post-Test): To measure knowledge gained and learning outcomes achieved during the course.
• Written Tests and Knowledge Quizzes: Short quizzes and written assessments aligned with key training modules.
• Practical Skills Assessment Checklists: Standardized checklists to evaluate participant performance during practical exercises, simulations, and field drills.
• Competency Verification Tools: Tools for instructors to assess whether trainees have demonstrated required operational competencies.
• Minimum Training Completion Requirements: Clear criteria defining successful completion of the course, which may include:
  • Minimum attendance requirements
  • Minimum score for written examinations or quizzes
  • Successful completion of practical skills assessments
  • Demonstration of required operational competencies
• Instructor Evaluation Guidance: Guidance for trainers on how to conduct assessments and document participant performance.
• After-Action Review (AAR) Templates: Structured templates for reviewing learning outcomes following exercises and simulations.
• Training Slide Deck

A structured presentation slide deck aligned with the curriculum modules and designed to support classroom and technical instruction, including:

• Technical illustrations
• Operational diagrams
• Case studies and field examples
• Visual instructional aids
• References to multimedia learning resources
• Exercise and Simulation Guide

A guide for practical training exercises, including:

• Exercise objectives and expected learning outcomes
• Scenario descriptions and operational injects
• Instructions for facilitators and participants
• Evaluation criteria and observation checklists
• Exercise safety and risk management guidance
• Identification of exercises suitable for controlled simulation facilities and those that may be conducted in rivers, dams, reservoirs, canals, or other suitable water bodies
• Minimum criteria for selection and approval of alternative training sites, including water flow, depth, access, weather, contamination risks, downstream hazards, communications, evacuation routes, and proximity to emergency medical support
• Guidance on modifying, postponing, or cancelling practical exercises when site or weather conditions exceed approved safety parameters
• Guidance for conducting after-action reviews and learning reflections
• Reference and Resource Compendium

A consolidated set of technical references and supporting materials, including:

• National operational guidelines from NDMA and NDRF
• Relevant NDRF SOPs and doctrine
• Relevant international standards
• Recommended reading materials
• Links to audiovisual learning resources and online references
• Alignment with National Policies and International Standards

All training materials must:

• Align with India’s relevant national disaster management policies, plans, and operational procedures, including the NDRF doctrine and operational guidelines.
• Reflect standard operating procedures used by NDRF units and the NDRF Academy.
• Integrate internationally recognized minimum operational and training standards, including but not limited to:
  • INSARAG Guidelines and Methodology, where relevant
  • Swiftwater and flood rescue operational guidance
  • Relevant NFPA standards
  • International rescue and emergency response best practices

4. Technical Recommendations for Training Facilities and Simulation Infrastructure

The Consultant will provide technical recommendations to support the design and conceptualization of FWR training infrastructure for the proposed NDRF Training Academy in Nagpur. The recommendations shall address both dedicated training infrastructure and interim or alternative arrangements for practical training in suitable natural or managed water environments where dedicated swift-water facilities are unavailable or not yet operational.

The Consultant will:

• Work closely with the designated experts and ADPC/NDRF technical teams in defining operational requirements for FWR training infrastructure.
• Provide technical recommendations on training facility layouts and simulation environments required for practical FWR training.
• Recommend infrastructure requirements for:
  • Swift-water rescue simulation areas
  • Flood rescue practical training zones
  • Boat handling and rescue operation areas
  • Rope rescue integration zones
  • Water survival and victim recovery training areas
  • Safety and decontamination areas where applicable
• Recommend minimum and advanced equipment requirements for practical exercises and simulations.
• Provide technical guidance on:
  • Training safety considerations
  • Instructor-to-participant ratios
  • Risk management measures
  • Operational realism requirements
• Recommend phased development options for facilities and equipment to support future scalability and institutionalization, including interim use of approved natural or managed water bodies until dedicated swift-water training infrastructure becomes operational.

Note: Detailed architectural design, engineering, and construction are outside the scope of this consultancy. The Consultant’s role is limited to providing technical and operational recommendations to inform the facility design process.

5. Quality Assurance and Validation

The Consultant will:

• Present draft materials for review by ADPC and the NDRF TCWG.
• Revise training materials based on technical feedback.
• Develop a structured training assessment system including exercises, question banks, practical evaluation criteria, and competency verification mechanisms.
• Ensure final products are technically sound, operationally relevant, and suitable for institutional adoption by NDRF.
• Pilot-test selected curriculum modules and practical exercise protocols with designated ADPC and NDRF experts, including review of their suitability for controlled facilities and approved alternative water-based training environments.
• Conduct pilot assessments prior to finalization.
• Deliver one Training of Trainers along with designated ADPC and NDRF experts.

F. Working Principles:

The Consultant will report directly to the designated technical lead at ADPC and work under the technical guidance of the ADPC and NDRF Technical Curriculum Working Group (TCWG).

The consultant will work closely with program Managers/Coordinators of ADPC in delivering the assignment. All costs related to consultations and validation workshops will be managed separately by ADPC.

This is a lump sum contract. Any travel undertaken by the consultant in the delivery of this assignment shall be covered by ADPC upon prior written approval in line with the ADPC travel policy.

G. Qualifications:

The assignment will be undertaken by an Individual Consultant with demonstrated expertise in Flood Water Rescue (FWR), competency-based curriculum development, and operational training systems.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

• Advanced degree in disaster management, emergency management, water rescue operations, public safety, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of professional experience in emergency response training and curriculum development.
• Demonstrated experience in flood water rescue and/or swift-water rescue operations.
• Proven experience in competency-based curriculum and instructional design.
• Experience developing facilitator guides, participant manuals, evaluation tools, and simulation exercise materials.
• Experience working with government agencies, emergency response organizations, military, paramilitary, or civil protection institutions.
• Familiarity with international operational standards and guidance relevant to flood and water rescue operations.
• Strong technical writing, instructional design, and facilitation skills.

Technical and Functional Competencies

The Consultant should demonstrate:

• Advanced knowledge of flood and swift-water rescue operations
• Expertise in adult learning methodologies, blended learning approaches, and competency-based instructional design for operational training environments.
• Familiarity with online instructional approaches, digital learning systems, and technology-enabled learning tools, including immersive learning approaches such as simulation-supported learning, VR/AR applications, and audiovisual instructional methodologies where relevant and operationally feasible.
• Experience in scenario-based and simulation-driven training design
• Experience developing competency-based evaluation systems
• Ability to engage effectively with operational experts, trainers, and technical working groups.

Instructional Design and Learning Technology Support

Given the specialized operational nature of the assignment, ADPC may support the Consultant through coordination with instructional design and pedagogical experts, where necessary, to strengthen:

• blended learning methodologies;
• online and self-paced learning approaches;
• technology-enabled instructional systems;
• immersive and simulation-supported learning approaches; and
• development of learner-centered training materials

This arrangement is intended to ensure that technically strong operational content is effectively translated into structured, competency-based, and institutionally scalable learning products.

H. Duty Station

Home-based with possible travel to partner institutions as required.

I. Contract Duration:

15 June 2026 – 15 November 2026

J. Deliverable: The work shall be carried out as per the following timelines:

Deliverable 1 : Inception Report and Consultation Plan

Submission of inception report outlining methodology, detailed workplan, consultation strategy, pedagogical approach, coordination mechanism, and initial review of operational and training requirements.

Indicative Timing : Month 1 (Weeks 1–2)

Deliverable 2 : FWR Curriculum Design and Stakeholder Consultations

Technical consultations with NDRF instructors, operational experts, ADPC, and relevant stakeholders to validate competency requirements, delivery modalities, training structure, practical exercise requirements, and facility needs.

Indicative Timing : Month 1 (Weeks 3–4)

Deliverable 3 : Draft Competency-Based FWR Curriculum Framework

Submission of draft curriculum framework including competency mapping, module sequencing, learning outcomes, instructional methodologies, practical training requirements, assessment strategy, and indicative balance between classroom, simulation-based, technology-enabled, and field-based learning. The framework shall identify practical training that may be conducted in dedicated facilities and, where such facilities are unavailable, in approved rivers, dams, reservoirs, canals, or other suitable water bodies, together with the applicable safety and site-selection requirements.

Indicative Timing : Month 2 (Weeks 5–6)

Deliverable 4 : Curriculum Validation Workshop

Validation workshop with ADPC, NDRF TCWG, and operational experts to review and validate the curriculum framework, competency alignment, delivery modalities, and technical training infrastructure requirements.

Indicative Timing : Month 2 (Weeks 7–8)

Deliverable 5 : Progress Update Report

Submission of progress report summarizing consultations conducted, key technical decisions, identified gaps, and next steps for training package development.

Indicative Timing : End of Month 2

Deliverable 6 : Draft FWR Training Package – Phase 1

Submission of initial draft training materials covering priority modules, including draft Facilitator Guide, Participant Workbook, assessment tools, exercise concepts, and slide presentations.

Indicative Timing : Month 3

Deliverable 7 : Technical Review and Working Sessions

Technical review sessions with NDRF trainers, operational personnel, and ADPC experts to review practicality, operational relevance, instructional flow, simulation requirements, and competency alignment.

Indicative Timing : Month 4 (Weeks 13–14)

Deliverable 8 : Full Draft FWR Training Package

Submission of expanded draft training package, including: Facilitator Guide, Participant Workbook, Training Slide Deck, Exercise and Simulation Guide, Training Evaluation and Assessment Tools, Reference and Resource Compendium, and draft technical recommendations for FWR training facilities and simulation infrastructure. The Exercise and Simulation Guide shall include protocols for practical training in dedicated facilities and approved alternative water environments.

Indicative Timing : Month 4 (Weeks 15–16)

Deliverable 9 : Technical Recommendations for FWR Training Facilities and Simulation Infrastructure

Submission of technical recommendations related to flood and swift-water rescue training infrastructure, simulation environments, safety considerations, operational realism, equipment requirements, and phased facility development options.

Indicative Timing : Month 5

Deliverable 10 : Pilot Testing, Assessment, and Training of Trainers (ToT)

Conduct pilot testing and practical review sessions of selected curriculum modules and exercises with designated ADPC and NDRF experts. Deliver one Training of Trainers (ToT) session and conduct pilot assessments to validate usability, practicality, instructional effectiveness, and applicability across both dedicated training facilities and approved alternative water-based training environments.

Indicative Timing : Month 5 (Weeks 19–20)

Deliverable 11 : Revised Final FWR Training Package

Submission of revised and finalized training package incorporating all comments and recommendations from pilot testing, technical reviews, and validation sessions.

Indicative Timing : Month 6 (Weeks 21–22)

Deliverable 12 : Final Validation and Endorsement Session

Final validation and endorsement workshop with ADPC, NDRF leadership, instructors, and technical experts to confirm readiness for institutional adoption and rollout.

Indicative Timing : Month 6 (Week 23)

Deliverable 13 : Final Training Package and Completion Report

Submission of final competency-based FWR curriculum framework, finalized training package, technical facility recommendations, ToT outputs, pilot assessment findings, and final completion report.

Indicative Timing : Month 6 (Week 24)

K. Condition of payment: The payment schedule is structured to reflect the phased development, consultation, validation, pilot testing, revision, and finalization process for the competency-based Flood Water Rescue (FWR) curriculum and comprehensive training package over the 6-month assignment period.

Deliverable 1 : Approval of Inception Report and Consultation Plan

Submission and approval of inception report, methodology, detailed workplan, pedagogical approach, and consultation strategy.

Payment : 15%

Deliverable 2 : Approval of Draft Competency-Based FWR Curriculum Framework

Submission and approval of the draft curriculum framework, including competency mapping, course structure, learning outcomes, instructional methodologies, delivery modalities, and assessment strategy.

Payment : 20%

Deliverable 3 : Approval of Draft FWR Training Package – Phase 1

Submission and approval of initial draft training materials covering priority modules, including draft Facilitator Guide, Participant Workbook, assessment tools, exercise concepts, and draft slide presentations.

Payment : 20%

Deliverable 4 : Approval of Full Draft FWR Training Package and Technical Recommendations

Submission and approval of the expanded draft training package, including Exercise and Simulation Guide, Training Evaluation and Assessment Tools, Reference and Resource Compendium, and technical recommendations for FWR training facilities and simulation infrastructure.

Payment : 25%

Deliverable 5 : Approval of Final FWR Training Package, ToT Outputs, and Completion Report

Submission and approval of finalized curriculum framework, training package, pilot testing outputs, Training of Trainers (ToT) outputs, final facility recommendations, and final completion report incorporating all comments and validation inputs.

Payment : 20%

L. Payment Conditions:

• Payments will be released upon submission and formal approval of each deliverable by ADPC.
• Technical review and endorsement of deliverables will be conducted in consultation with the NDRF Technical Curriculum Working Group (TCWG) to ensure technical quality, operational relevance, instructional integrity, and alignment with institutional requirements.
• The Consultant shall address and incorporate all technical comments and revisions required for approval of each milestone.
• ADPC reserves the right to withhold approval of deliverables that do not meet the required technical and instructional quality standards until satisfactory revisions are completed.
• Final payment is contingent upon:
  • Submission of complete and finalized training materials in editable formats;
  • Submission of all assessment tools, exercise materials, and pilot testing outputs;
  • Submission of technical recommendations for FWR training facilities and simulation infrastructure; and
  • Acceptance of final outputs by ADPC and NDRF.
• All final materials shall be submitted in editable formats, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and other relevant formats as applicable.

M. Associated Cost:

All costs related to travel to field locations as required, including transportation, accommodation, and per diem, shall be covered by ADPC as per policy.

In addition, all costs related to the approved consultations, workshops, pilot testing activities, validation sessions, and Training of Trainers (ToT) activities will be managed separately by ADPC in accordance with organizational procedures.

N. Mode of Payment:

Payment shall be made through bank transfer based on satisfactory delivery of agreed outputs.

A. About the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center:

The Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) is an autonomous international organization established for scientific, educational, developmental, and humanitarian purposes with a vision of safer communities and sustainable development through disaster risk reduction and climate resilience in Asia and the Pacific. Established in 1986 as a technical capacity-building center, ADPC has grown and diversified its expertise across social and physical sciences, envisioning safer communities and sustainable development through disaster risk reduction. Being an autonomous international organization governed by the Board of Trustees. It supports sustainable solutions for disaster risk reduction across a broad range of specialist areas, with a wide range of professional expertise from atmospheric scientists to social scientists with experiences from all levels of engagement typically required for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Climate Resilience (CR) effectively.

ADPC’s Strategy 2030 guides the organization in providing comprehensive risk reduction support to countries and communities in Asia and the Pacific with various programs being implemented under 15 strategic themes by three departments, namely the Preparedness and Climate Actions, Risk Analytics and Climate Services, and Risk Governance and Financing. In addition to these, ADPC also works on three cross-cutting themes: Gender and Diversity, Innovation, and Regional and Transboundary Cooperation through permanent working committees. These activities are supported by proactive individual departments of Finance, Human Resources, and Administration. ADPC recognizes the importance of examining the linkages between disaster risk management, poverty reduction, gender equality, sustainability, rights-based approaches, climate change, and regional cooperation. For details, please refer to the ADPC website at http://www.adpc.net.

B. Department Introduction

The Preparedness and Climate Actions (PCA) Department of ADPC focuses on enhancing the preparedness and response management capacities of governments, response organizations, volunteers, non-governmental organizations, the private sector, communities, and other traditional and non-traditional actors of the Disaster Risk Management Ecosystem. It also strives to strengthen the capacity of institutions and at-risk communities for faster and more efficient disaster recovery. The department works with the above-stated actors to ensure that the regional, national, sub-national, and local disaster preparedness, response, and recovery frameworks and implementation plans are in place well before disaster strikes.

C. Statement of Intent

The Institutional Strengthening through Preparedness and Inclusive Response in India (INSPIRE) Program is a collaborative initiative by the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC), the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and state institutions in Odisha, Gujarat, and Kerala. The program aims to enhance institutional systems for disaster preparedness and climate action at the national and state levels, while contributing to regional cooperation in the Bay of Bengal.

Through INSPIRE, ADPC works closely with national and state-level stakeholders to promote risk-informed planning, strengthen local capacities, and support sustainable disaster management practices. The program focuses on advancing institutional leadership and technical capacities within strategic government institutions, enabling them to play a central role in managing disasters and responding to climate shocks. It also fosters the development of innovative, data-driven solutions and promotes cross-learning through structured regional collaboration.

In this context, ADPC seeks to engage an Individual Consultant to support the development of a competency-based curriculum framework and prototype training package for Flood Water Rescue (FWR) for the NDRF.

The Consultant will support the development of a structured competency-based Flood Water Rescue (FWR) curriculum framework and prototype training package aligned with NDRF operational requirements, training doctrine, and internationally recognized standards and methodologies for flood and water rescue operations. Delivery of training courses is not included within the scope of this consultancy.

The assignment will also support the development of technical recommendations related to training infrastructure, simulation facilities, and operational training environments required for practical FWR training within the NDRF Training Academy in Nagpur. The curriculum and training package shall also provide for the safe conduct of practical training in suitable alternative water environments, including rivers, dams, reservoirs, canals, and other appropriate water bodies, where dedicated swift-water training infrastructure is unavailable or not yet operational.

D. Expected Outputs

At the completion of the assignment, the Individual Consultant will submit:

1. One complete competency-based FWR training package, including:
   1. Facilitator Guide
   2. Participant Workbook
   3. Training Slide Deck
   4. Exercise and Simulation Guide
   5. Training Evaluation and Assessment Tools
   6. Reference and Resource Compendium
2. Technical recommendations report on:
   1. FWR training facility design
   2. Simulation and practical exercise infrastructure
   3. Equipment and supply requirements
   4. Safety and risk management considerations
3. Additional Outputs:
   1. Training of Trainers (ToT) outputs
   2. Pilot assessment findings
   3. Final completion report

All deliverables in editable formats (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, PDF, and other relevant formats)

E. Responsibilities and Tasks:

The Individual Consultant will provide technical expertise and instructional design support to ADPC and NDRF in developing a structured competency-based Flood Water Rescue (FWR) curriculum framework and associated training package.

The Consultant shall ensure that all curriculum components and learning materials are operationally relevant, competency-based, and aligned with applicable national and international standards.

The assignment focuses exclusively on curriculum development, instructional design inputs, and technical recommendations related to training facilities and simulation infrastructure. The curriculum and training package should support both classroom-based and practical field-based training delivery modalities. Practical training modalities shall include provisions for conducting exercises in dedicated training facilities as well as in suitable natural or managed water bodies, subject to site suitability, operational requirements, and approved safety and risk-management measures.

1. Technical Collaboration and Coordination

The consultant will:

• Work closely with ADPC technical leads, the NDRF Technical Curriculum Working Group (TCWG), and other FWR subject matter experts throughout the assignment.
• Participate in technical consultations, curriculum review sessions, validation workshops, and coordination meetings organized by ADPC and NDRF.
• Ensure all outputs reflect operational realities, NDRF doctrine, field practices, and institutional requirements.
• Maintain regular coordination with the consultant architect responsible for the design and conceptualization of the NDRF Training Academy in Nagpur to provide technical recommendations related to FWR training infrastructure and simulation requirements.

2. Curriculum Framework Development

The Consultant will develop a structured competency-based curriculum framework for Flood Water Rescue (FWR). The curriculum framework shall define:

• Training objectives and expected operational competencies
• Target participants and competency levels
• Course structure and module sequencing
• Learning outcomes
• Instructional methodologies
• Requirements and criteria for conducting practical training in dedicated facilities and, where such facilities are unavailable, in suitable alternative water environments such as rivers, dams, reservoirs, canals, and other approved water bodies
• Assessment approaches and performance verification methods
• Recommended duration and delivery modalities
• Indicative balance between classroom instruction, simulation-based learning, technology-enabled learning, and field-based practical exercises
• Define and propose an indicative pedagogical approach for the training program, including the recommended balance among:
  • Self-paced online learning;
  • Instructor-led classroom instruction;
  • Technology-enabled learning approaches (including audiovisual learning, VR/AR-based simulation, or immersive learning where feasible);
  • Simulation-based practical exercises; and
  • Field-based hands-on operational training in dedicated training facilities or suitable natural and managed water bodies, as operationally appropriate

The curriculum framework shall align with the competency standards developed under the INSPIRE India Program and support institutionalization within the NDRF Academy training system.

The Consultant shall recommend indicative ratios between theoretical (“know-how”) instruction and practical (“show-how”) application components appropriate to the competency level and operational objectives of each module.

3. Development of Interactive Training Packages

The Consultant will support the development of a comprehensive prototype training package for Flood Water Rescue (FWR), designed for operational training delivery by the NDRF Academy and associated training institutions.

The Consultant will work closely with the pedagogical materials development specialist to design and structure all training products.

The training package should promote interactive and practice-oriented learning methodologies, including:

• Scenario-based learning
• Simulation-based learning
• Technology-enabled learning approaches, including audiovisual demonstrations and immersive learning methods, where feasible
• Practical field exercises in controlled training environments and suitable natural or managed water bodies
• Skills stations and demonstrations
• Group problem-solving exercises
• Operational case studies
• Facilitated discussions and after-action reflection

Training materials should integrate references to audiovisual resources, operational videos, technical diagrams, digital learning tools, field checklists, and relevant operational guidance.

The prototype training package shall include the following components: The training package will include:

• Facilitator Guide

The Facilitator Guide (FG) shall include:

• Session-by-session facilitation guidance
• Learning objectives and expected competencies
• Suggested instructional methodologies
• Site-selection and setup requirements for training conducted in rivers, dams, reservoirs, canals, and other approved water bodies
• Safety, rescue standby, communication, medical support, and emergency withdrawal guidelines for open-water training
• Guidance on instructor-to-participant ratios for practical sessions
• Facilitation notes and operational considerations
• Guidance for conducting practical exercises and simulations
• Participant Workbook

A learner-oriented workbook containing:

• Structured learning summaries
• Key operational concepts
• Technical illustrations, operational diagrams, and visual learning aids
• Practical exercises and reflection activities
• Operational checklists and field reference tools
• Recommended reading and audiovisual references
• Training Evaluation and Assessment Tools

The Consultant shall develop competency-based evaluation tools, including:

• Pre-training assessment (Pre-Test): To establish participants' baseline knowledge and competency levels.
• Post-training assessment (Post-Test): To measure knowledge gained and learning outcomes achieved during the course.
• Written Tests and Knowledge Quizzes: Short quizzes and written assessments aligned with key training modules.
• Practical Skills Assessment Checklists: Standardized checklists to evaluate participant performance during practical exercises, simulations, and field drills.
• Competency Verification Tools: Tools for instructors to assess whether trainees have demonstrated required operational competencies.
• Minimum Training Completion Requirements: Clear criteria defining successful completion of the course, which may include:
  • Minimum attendance requirements
  • Minimum score for written examinations or quizzes
  • Successful completion of practical skills assessments
  • Demonstration of required operational competencies
• Instructor Evaluation Guidance: Guidance for trainers on how to conduct assessments and document participant performance.
• After-Action Review (AAR) Templates: Structured templates for reviewing learning outcomes following exercises and simulations.
• Training Slide Deck

A structured presentation slide deck aligned with the curriculum modules and designed to support classroom and technical instruction, including:

• Technical illustrations
• Operational diagrams
• Case studies and field examples
• Visual instructional aids
• References to multimedia learning resources
• Exercise and Simulation Guide

A guide for practical training exercises, including:

• Exercise objectives and expected learning outcomes
• Scenario descriptions and operational injects
• Instructions for facilitators and participants
• Evaluation criteria and observation checklists
• Exercise safety and risk management guidance
• Identification of exercises suitable for controlled simulation facilities and those that may be conducted in rivers, dams, reservoirs, canals, or other suitable water bodies
• Minimum criteria for selection and approval of alternative training sites, including water flow, depth, access, weather, contamination risks, downstream hazards, communications, evacuation routes, and proximity to emergency medical support
• Guidance on modifying, postponing, or cancelling practical exercises when site or weather conditions exceed approved safety parameters
• Guidance for conducting after-action reviews and learning reflections
• Reference and Resource Compendium

A consolidated set of technical references and supporting materials, including:

• National operational guidelines from NDMA and NDRF
• Relevant NDRF SOPs and doctrine
• Relevant international standards
• Recommended reading materials
• Links to audiovisual learning resources and online references
• Alignment with National Policies and International Standards

All training materials must:

• Align with India’s relevant national disaster management policies, plans, and operational procedures, including the NDRF doctrine and operational guidelines.
• Reflect standard operating procedures used by NDRF units and the NDRF Academy.
• Integrate internationally recognized minimum operational and training standards, including but not limited to:
  • INSARAG Guidelines and Methodology, where relevant
  • Swiftwater and flood rescue operational guidance
  • Relevant NFPA standards
  • International rescue and emergency response best practices

4. Technical Recommendations for Training Facilities and Simulation Infrastructure

The Consultant will provide technical recommendations to support the design and conceptualization of FWR training infrastructure for the proposed NDRF Training Academy in Nagpur. The recommendations shall address both dedicated training infrastructure and interim or alternative arrangements for practical training in suitable natural or managed water environments where dedicated swift-water facilities are unavailable or not yet operational.

The Consultant will:

• Work closely with the designated experts and ADPC/NDRF technical teams in defining operational requirements for FWR training infrastructure.
• Provide technical recommendations on training facility layouts and simulation environments required for practical FWR training.
• Recommend infrastructure requirements for:
  • Swift-water rescue simulation areas
  • Flood rescue practical training zones
  • Boat handling and rescue operation areas
  • Rope rescue integration zones
  • Water survival and victim recovery training areas
  • Safety and decontamination areas where applicable
• Recommend minimum and advanced equipment requirements for practical exercises and simulations.
• Provide technical guidance on:
  • Training safety considerations
  • Instructor-to-participant ratios
  • Risk management measures
  • Operational realism requirements
• Recommend phased development options for facilities and equipment to support future scalability and institutionalization, including interim use of approved natural or managed water bodies until dedicated swift-water training infrastructure becomes operational.

Note: Detailed architectural design, engineering, and construction are outside the scope of this consultancy. The Consultant’s role is limited to providing technical and operational recommendations to inform the facility design process.

5. Quality Assurance and Validation

The Consultant will:

• Present draft materials for review by ADPC and the NDRF TCWG.
• Revise training materials based on technical feedback.
• Develop a structured training assessment system including exercises, question banks, practical evaluation criteria, and competency verification mechanisms.
• Ensure final products are technically sound, operationally relevant, and suitable for institutional adoption by NDRF.
• Pilot-test selected curriculum modules and practical exercise protocols with designated ADPC and NDRF experts, including review of their suitability for controlled facilities and approved alternative water-based training environments.
• Conduct pilot assessments prior to finalization.
• Deliver one Training of Trainers along with designated ADPC and NDRF experts.

F. Working Principles:

The Consultant will report directly to the designated technical lead at ADPC and work under the technical guidance of the ADPC and NDRF Technical Curriculum Working Group (TCWG).

The consultant will work closely with program Managers/Coordinators of ADPC in delivering the assignment. All costs related to consultations and validation workshops will be managed separately by ADPC.

This is a lump sum contract. Any travel undertaken by the consultant in the delivery of this assignment shall be covered by ADPC upon prior written approval in line with the ADPC travel policy.

G. Qualifications:

The assignment will be undertaken by an Individual Consultant with demonstrated expertise in Flood Water Rescue (FWR), competency-based curriculum development, and operational training systems.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

• Advanced degree in disaster management, emergency management, water rescue operations, public safety, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of professional experience in emergency response training and curriculum development.
• Demonstrated experience in flood water rescue and/or swift-water rescue operations.
• Proven experience in competency-based curriculum and instructional design.
• Experience developing facilitator guides, participant manuals, evaluation tools, and simulation exercise materials.
• Experience working with government agencies, emergency response organizations, military, paramilitary, or civil protection institutions.
• Familiarity with international operational standards and guidance relevant to flood and water rescue operations.
• Strong technical writing, instructional design, and facilitation skills.

Technical and Functional Competencies

The Consultant should demonstrate:

• Advanced knowledge of flood and swift-water rescue operations
• Expertise in adult learning methodologies, blended learning approaches, and competency-based instructional design for operational training environments.
• Familiarity with online instructional approaches, digital learning systems, and technology-enabled learning tools, including immersive learning approaches such as simulation-supported learning, VR/AR applications, and audiovisual instructional methodologies where relevant and operationally feasible.
• Experience in scenario-based and simulation-driven training design
• Experience developing competency-based evaluation systems
• Ability to engage effectively with operational experts, trainers, and technical working groups.

Instructional Design and Learning Technology Support

Given the specialized operational nature of the assignment, ADPC may support the Consultant through coordination with instructional design and pedagogical experts, where necessary, to strengthen:

• blended learning methodologies;
• online and self-paced learning approaches;
• technology-enabled instructional systems;
• immersive and simulation-supported learning approaches; and
• development of learner-centered training materials

This arrangement is intended to ensure that technically strong operational content is effectively translated into structured, competency-based, and institutionally scalable learning products.

H. Duty Station

Home-based with possible travel to partner institutions as required.

I. Contract Duration:

15 June 2026 – 15 November 2026

J. Deliverable: The work shall be carried out as per the following timelines:

Deliverable 1 : Inception Report and Consultation Plan

Submission of inception report outlining methodology, detailed workplan, consultation strategy, pedagogical approach, coordination mechanism, and initial review of operational and training requirements.

Indicative Timing : Month 1 (Weeks 1–2)

Deliverable 2 : FWR Curriculum Design and Stakeholder Consultations

Technical consultations with NDRF instructors, operational experts, ADPC, and relevant stakeholders to validate competency requirements, delivery modalities, training structure, practical exercise requirements, and facility needs.

Indicative Timing : Month 1 (Weeks 3–4)

Deliverable 3 : Draft Competency-Based FWR Curriculum Framework

Submission of draft curriculum framework including competency mapping, module sequencing, learning outcomes, instructional methodologies, practical training requirements, assessment strategy, and indicative balance between classroom, simulation-based, technology-enabled, and field-based learning. The framework shall identify practical training that may be conducted in dedicated facilities and, where such facilities are unavailable, in approved rivers, dams, reservoirs, canals, or other suitable water bodies, together with the applicable safety and site-selection requirements.

Indicative Timing : Month 2 (Weeks 5–6)

Deliverable 4 : Curriculum Validation Workshop

Validation workshop with ADPC, NDRF TCWG, and operational experts to review and validate the curriculum framework, competency alignment, delivery modalities, and technical training infrastructure requirements.

Indicative Timing : Month 2 (Weeks 7–8)

Deliverable 5 : Progress Update Report

Submission of progress report summarizing consultations conducted, key technical decisions, identified gaps, and next steps for training package development.

Indicative Timing : End of Month 2

Deliverable 6 : Draft FWR Training Package – Phase 1

Submission of initial draft training materials covering priority modules, including draft Facilitator Guide, Participant Workbook, assessment tools, exercise concepts, and slide presentations.

Indicative Timing : Month 3

Deliverable 7 : Technical Review and Working Sessions

Technical review sessions with NDRF trainers, operational personnel, and ADPC experts to review practicality, operational relevance, instructional flow, simulation requirements, and competency alignment.

Indicative Timing : Month 4 (Weeks 13–14)

Deliverable 8 : Full Draft FWR Training Package

Submission of expanded draft training package, including: Facilitator Guide, Participant Workbook, Training Slide Deck, Exercise and Simulation Guide, Training Evaluation and Assessment Tools, Reference and Resource Compendium, and draft technical recommendations for FWR training facilities and simulation infrastructure. The Exercise and Simulation Guide shall include protocols for practical training in dedicated facilities and approved alternative water environments.

Indicative Timing : Month 4 (Weeks 15–16)

Deliverable 9 : Technical Recommendations for FWR Training Facilities and Simulation Infrastructure

Submission of technical recommendations related to flood and swift-water rescue training infrastructure, simulation environments, safety considerations, operational realism, equipment requirements, and phased facility development options.

Indicative Timing : Month 5

Deliverable 10 : Pilot Testing, Assessment, and Training of Trainers (ToT)

Conduct pilot testing and practical review sessions of selected curriculum modules and exercises with designated ADPC and NDRF experts. Deliver one Training of Trainers (ToT) session and conduct pilot assessments to validate usability, practicality, instructional effectiveness, and applicability across both dedicated training facilities and approved alternative water-based training environments.

Indicative Timing : Month 5 (Weeks 19–20)

Deliverable 11 : Revised Final FWR Training Package

Submission of revised and finalized training package incorporating all comments and recommendations from pilot testing, technical reviews, and validation sessions.

Indicative Timing : Month 6 (Weeks 21–22)

Deliverable 12 : Final Validation and Endorsement Session

Final validation and endorsement workshop with ADPC, NDRF leadership, instructors, and technical experts to confirm readiness for institutional adoption and rollout.

Indicative Timing : Month 6 (Week 23)

Deliverable 13 : Final Training Package and Completion Report

Submission of final competency-based FWR curriculum framework, finalized training package, technical facility recommendations, ToT outputs, pilot assessment findings, and final completion report.

Indicative Timing : Month 6 (Week 24)

K. Condition of payment: The payment schedule is structured to reflect the phased development, consultation, validation, pilot testing, revision, and finalization process for the competency-based Flood Water Rescue (FWR) curriculum and comprehensive training package over the 6-month assignment period.

Deliverable 1 : Approval of Inception Report and Consultation Plan

Submission and approval of inception report, methodology, detailed workplan, pedagogical approach, and consultation strategy.

Payment : 15%

Deliverable 2 : Approval of Draft Competency-Based FWR Curriculum Framework

Submission and approval of the draft curriculum framework, including competency mapping, course structure, learning outcomes, instructional methodologies, delivery modalities, and assessment strategy.

Payment : 20%

Deliverable 3 : Approval of Draft FWR Training Package – Phase 1

Submission and approval of initial draft training materials covering priority modules, including draft Facilitator Guide, Participant Workbook, assessment tools, exercise concepts, and draft slide presentations.

Payment : 20%

Deliverable 4 : Approval of Full Draft FWR Training Package and Technical Recommendations

Submission and approval of the expanded draft training package, including Exercise and Simulation Guide, Training Evaluation and Assessment Tools, Reference and Resource Compendium, and technical recommendations for FWR training facilities and simulation infrastructure.

Payment : 25%

Deliverable 5 : Approval of Final FWR Training Package, ToT Outputs, and Completion Report

Submission and approval of finalized curriculum framework, training package, pilot testing outputs, Training of Trainers (ToT) outputs, final facility recommendations, and final completion report incorporating all comments and validation inputs.

Payment : 20%

L. Payment Conditions:

• Payments will be released upon submission and formal approval of each deliverable by ADPC.
• Technical review and endorsement of deliverables will be conducted in consultation with the NDRF Technical Curriculum Working Group (TCWG) to ensure technical quality, operational relevance, instructional integrity, and alignment with institutional requirements.
• The Consultant shall address and incorporate all technical comments and revisions required for approval of each milestone.
• ADPC reserves the right to withhold approval of deliverables that do not meet the required technical and instructional quality standards until satisfactory revisions are completed.
• Final payment is contingent upon:
  • Submission of complete and finalized training materials in editable formats;
  • Submission of all assessment tools, exercise materials, and pilot testing outputs;
  • Submission of technical recommendations for FWR training facilities and simulation infrastructure; and
  • Acceptance of final outputs by ADPC and NDRF.
• All final materials shall be submitted in editable formats, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and other relevant formats as applicable.

M. Associated Cost:

All costs related to travel to field locations as required, including transportation, accommodation, and per diem, shall be covered by ADPC as per policy.

In addition, all costs related to the approved consultations, workshops, pilot testing activities, validation sessions, and Training of Trainers (ToT) activities will be managed separately by ADPC in accordance with organizational procedures.

N. Mode of Payment:

Payment shall be made through bank transfer based on satisfactory delivery of agreed outputs.