Consultant for Development of Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR) Curricula for the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), India At Asian Disaster Preparedness Center

Leave a Comment / Remote / By

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 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 Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR) for the NDRF.

The Consultant will build on existing training materials developed under the PEER Program and other relevant sources, and adapt and contextualize them to align with NDRF operational doctrine, training systems, and applicable international standards. All training design and outputs shall be fully aligned with the CSSR Competency Framework, approved and endorsed by NDRF, ensuring a clear linkage among defined competencies, learning outcomes, instructional content, and assessment approaches.

D. Expected Outputs

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

  1. One complete competency-based CSSR 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. CSSR training facility design
    2. Simulation and practical exercise infrastructure
    3. Equipment and supply requirements
    4. Safety and risk management considerations
    5. Module-wise recommendations on the most appropriate training delivery modalities, including classroom instruction, practical drills, field simulations, tabletop exercises, AR/VR systems, simulation videos, and digital learning technologies, with rationale for aligning each modality to the relevant CSSR learning objectives and future modernization of NDRF training facilities.
  3. All materials are in editable formats (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and other relevant formats).
  4. Final documents formatted and organized for institutional use by the NDRF Academy and related NDRF training institutions.
  5. Final completion report summarizing:
    1. Methodology applied
    2. Consultation and validation process
    3. Key recommendations
    4. Considerations for rollout, institutionalization, and future curriculum enhancement

E. Responsibilities and Tasks:

The Individual Consultant will provide technical and instructional design support to the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in developing a streamlined, competency-based curriculum framework and a prototype training package for Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR).

The Consultant will work under the overall guidance of ADPC and in close coordination with the NDRF Technical Curriculum Working Group (TCWG) and designated CSSR subject matter experts from NDRF Headquarters and the NDRF Academy.

1.1 Technical Collaboration and Coordination

The consultant will:

  • Work closely with ADPC technical leads and the NDRF Technical Curriculum Working Group throughout the curriculum development process.
  • Lead, plan, and participate in technical consultations, working sessions, and validation meetings organized by ADPC and NDRF.
  • Ensure all training products reflect operational realities and the NDRF doctrine, incorporating feedback from NDRF operational experts and instructors.
  • Maintain regular coordination with the ADPC technical lead to ensure alignment with the INSPIRE India Program’s objectives.1.2 Curriculum Framework Development

The consultant will develop a structured competency-based curriculum framework for CSSR. The curriculum framework should define:

  • Training objectives and expected operational competencies
  • Target participants and competency levels
  • Training modules and sequencing
  • Learning outcomes
  • Instructional methodologies
  • Duration and training structure
  • Assessment approaches and performance verification methods

The CSSR curriculum must align with the CSSR competency framework and standards developed under the INSPIRE India Program and support their operational application within NDRF training systems.

The curriculum shall be designed to support implementation within NDRF Battalion training environments and operational field conditions. Training content, exercises, simulations, equipment requirements, and assessment approaches shall reflect the practical training needs, deployment realities, and operational tasks routinely undertaken by NDRF Battalions.

1.3 Development of Interactive Training Packages

The consultant will develop a comprehensive training package designed for operational training delivery by the NDRF Academy and NDRF training institutions.

The training design should emphasize interactive and practice-oriented learning methodologies, including:

  • Scenario-based learning
  • Case studies and operational examples
  • Skills exercises, simulation exercises, and field drills
  • Group problem-solving and facilitated discussions
  • Demonstrations and practical skill stations

Training materials should also integrate links to audiovisual learning resources and reference materials to support effective instruction and self-directed learning. Where appropriate, modules should include links or references to relevant:

  • Operational videos and demonstrations
  • Technical diagrams and visual guides
  • Short instructional media resources
  • Field reference tools and checklists
  • Recommended external guidance documents

These resources should be clearly integrated into the training materials to facilitate easy access and reinforce learning during and after training.

Training modules shall incorporate field-based practical exercises and battalion-level training applications to ensure direct operational relevance and ease of adoption across NDRF units.

Each training package will include:

  • Instructors’ Guide

A detailed instructor manual providing:

  • Session-by-session training guidance
  • Learning objectives and expected competencies
  • Interactive facilitation approaches and teaching methods
  • Required equipment and training setup
  • Instructor notes and safety considerations
  • Assessment guidance and performance evaluation criteria
  • Participant Workbook

A learner-oriented workbook containing:

  • Key concepts and structured learning summaries
  • Operational diagrams and illustrations
  • Practical exercises and reflection questions
  • Field checklists and operational reference tools
  • Embedded references to audiovisual materials and further reading
  • Training Evaluation and Certification System

The consultant will design and integrate a structured training evaluation and assessment system within the CSSR training package to ensure that participants demonstrate the required competencies. The evaluation system should include:

  • 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:

  • Visual illustrations and diagrams
  • Operational examples and case studies
  • Integration of audiovisual references and instructional media
  • 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
  • Guidance for conducting after-action reviews and learning reflections
  • Master Trainer (MT) and Training of Trainers (ToT) Package

The consultant shall develop a dedicated Master Trainer (MT) and Training of Trainers (ToT) package to support institutionalization and cascade delivery of the CSSR curriculum within NDRF. The package shall include:

  • Trainer competency requirements and selection criteria
  • Adult learning and facilitation methodologies
  • Instructor assessment and certification process
  • Guidance for conducting ToT programs
  • Quality assurance and training standardization mechanisms
  • Trainer mentoring and performance monitoring tools
  • Reference and Resource Compendium

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

  • National operational guidelines
  • Relevant international standards
  • Recommended reading materials
  • Links to audiovisual learning resources and technical guidance
  • 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 (Urban Search and Rescue / CSSR)
    • NFPA standards relevant to technical rescue operations
    • Other applicable international disaster response training standards1.4 Training Facility Design, Equipment, and Simulation Support

The consultant will:

  • Provide technical advice and recommendations on the design and layout of training facilities required to support practical skills development, simulation exercises, and field-based training for CSSR.
  • Identify and define minimum and advanced infrastructure requirements for training delivery, including simulation zones, skill stations, mock environments, and safety provisions aligned with operational training needs.
  • Develop detailed equipment and supplies lists required for conducting practical exercises, simulations, and drills, including specifications, quantities, and suggested standards.
  • Ensure that all recommendations for facilities, equipment, and supplies align with NDRF operational standards, training doctrine, and, where applicable, international best practices (e.g., INSARAG, NFPA).
  • Provide guidance on the safe conduct of practical exercises and simulations, including risk management measures, safety protocols, and instructor-to-participant ratios.
  • Where applicable, recommend phased development options for training facilities and equipment to support scalability and resource optimization within NDRF training institutions.

Note: Detailed engineering design, architectural planning, and construction of training facilities will remain the responsibility of NDRF. The consultant’s role is limited to providing technical and operational input to inform these processes.

1.5 Quality Assurance and Validation

The consultant will:

  • Present draft training materials for technical review by ADPC and the NDRF Technical Curriculum Working Group.
  • Revise materials based on feedback received during consultation and validation sessions.
  • Ensure final training packages are operationally relevant, technically sound, and suitable for institutionalization within the NDRF Academy training system.

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 competency-based curriculum development, instructional design, and operational training in Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR).

The Consultant is expected to possess a strong combination of technical CSSR/USAR knowledge, instructional design capabilities, and practical field experience to support the development of standardized, operationally relevant training curricula and packages for the NDRF.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

  • Advanced degree in disaster management, emergency management, civil engineering, structural engineering, architecture, public safety, or a related field.
  • At least 10 years of professional experience in developing training curricula and instructional materials for disaster response or emergency management, with a strong focus on CSSR/USAR.
  • Demonstrated experience in competency-based training design, including development of curriculum frameworks, facilitator guides, participant manuals, and training evaluation systems.
  • Proven operational experience in CSSR/USAR, including involvement in response operations, training delivery, or capacity-building initiatives.
  • Experience working with government agencies, urban search and rescue teams, civil protection institutions, or specialized response units.
  • Strong familiarity with international CSSR/USAR standards and methodologies, particularly the INSARAG Guidelines and Methodology, as well as relevant NFPA standards and other global best practices.

Preferred Professional Experience

  • Demonstrated experience in designing and developing professional training curricula and instructional materials, preferably for emergency response agencies, civil protection institutions, military or paramilitary organizations, or disaster management authorities.
  • Proven track record in competency-based training design, including development of curriculum frameworks, instructor guides, participant manuals, and training evaluation systems.
  • Experience in developing operational training materials for specialized emergency response disciplines, such as Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) / Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR); Disaster response operations, or emergency management training
  • Familiarity with international operational standards and technical guidance, including: INSARAG Guidelines and Methodology; NFPA technical rescue standards, and other relevant international training and operational standards
  • Demonstrated experience working with government institutions and multi-stakeholder technical working groups, including the ability to facilitate collaborative curriculum development processes.
  • Experience in applying interactive and adult-learning approaches in training design, including scenario-based learning, simulation exercises, and competency-based assessment approaches.
  • Proven ability to produce high-quality training materials and technical documentation suitable for institutional training systems.
  • Demonstrated experience in development or integration of immersive learning technologies, including Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR), simulation videos, digital learning tools, and scenario-based training systems for emergency response training.

Technical and Functional Competencies

The Consultant should demonstrate:

  • Advanced knowledge of CSSR/USAR operational components, including search techniques, rescue operations, structural assessment, safety management, and coordination mechanisms.
  • Experience in adult learning methodologies and instructional design for technical and operational training environments.
  • Ability to design and develop interactive, scenario-based, and simulation-driven training modules aligned with real-world CSSR operations.
  • Experience in developing competency-based assessment tools, including practical skills checklists and performance evaluation systems.
  • Strong analytical, technical writing, and documentation skills, with the ability to produce structured, high-quality training materials suitable for institutional use.
  • Ability to facilitate technical discussions and effectively engage with NDRF instructors, engineers, and operational experts.
  • Ability to conceptualize and develop technical specifications and instructional requirements for AR/VR applications, simulation videos, and other technology-enabled learning solutions supporting CSSR training.

Integration with NDRF Technical Expertise

While the assignment is delivered by an individual, the Consultant will work closely with the NDRF Technical Curriculum Working Group and CSSR subject matter experts to ensure that all training materials are operationally accurate, context-specific, and aligned with NDRF doctrine and field requirements.

H. Duty Station

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

I. Contract Duration:

July 2026 – November 2026

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

Deliverable / Milestone

Description

Indicative Timing

  1. Inception Report & Kick-Off Consultation

Submission of inception report including methodology, detailed workplan, consultation strategy, curriculum development approach, and coordination mechanism. Includes initial consultation with ADPC and NDRF TCWG to confirm scope, expectations, and work modalities.

Month 1 (Weeks 1–2)

2. CSSR Competency and Curriculum Design Consultation

Technical consultations (virtual and/or hybrid) with NDRF instructors, operational personnel, engineers, and subject matter experts to validate competency requirements, course structure, module sequencing, and learning outcomes.

Month 1 (Weeks 3–4)

3. Draft CSSR Curriculum Framework

Submission of draft competency-based curriculum framework, including competency mapping, training structure, module outlines, instructional methodologies, assessment strategy, and recommended course duration.

Month 2 (Weeks 5–6)

4. Curriculum Framework Validation Workshop

Conduct a targeted validation session/workshop with ADPC and NDRF TCWG to review and validate the curriculum framework and confirm direction for full training package development.

Month 2 (Weeks 7–8)

5. Progress Update Report

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

End of Month 2

6. Draft CSSR Training Package – Phase 1

Submission of initial draft training materials covering selected priority modules, including draft facilitator guide, participant workbook, slide deck, practical exercises, and draft assessment tools.

Month 3

7. Technical Review and Working Sessions

Technical review sessions with NDRF instructors, operational experts, and TCWG members to review practicality, operational relevance, instructional flow, and alignment with NDRF doctrine and CSSR operational requirements.

Month 4 (Weeks 13–14)

8. Draft CSSR Training Package – Full Version

Submission of the expanded and revised full draft CSSR training package incorporating feedback from technical review sessions. Includes: facilitator guide, participant workbook, slide deck, exercise and simulation guide, evaluation tools, and reference compendium.

Month 4 (Weeks 15–16)

9. Training Facility and Equipment Recommendations Report

Submission of technical recommendations on CSSR training facility design, simulation zones, training infrastructure, equipment requirements, safety considerations, and phased development options aligned with NDRF operational and training needs. Includes site visit(s), where applicable.

Month 5

10. Pilot Review / Validation Workshop

Conduct a validation workshop and practical review sessions with ADPC, NDRF TCWG, instructors, and operational personnel to validate usability, practicality, assessment systems, and simulation components of the training package.

Month 5 (Weeks 19–20)

11. Revised Final CSSR Training Package

Submission of revised and finalized training package incorporating all technical and validation feedback.

Month 6 (Weeks 21–22)

12. Final Validation & Endorsement Session

Final presentation and endorsement session with ADPC and NDRF leadership to confirm readiness for institutional adoption and rollout within NDRF training systems.

Month 6 (Week 23)

13. Final CSSR Training Package & Completion Report

Submission of finalized CSSR training package and completion report summarizing methodology, consultations, key technical features, recommendations for institutionalization, and proposed next steps for implementation and scaling.

Month 6 (Week 24)

K. Condition of payment:

  • 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 supporting assessment and exercise materials;
    • Submission of training facility and equipment recommendations; 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.
  • The payment schedule is structured to reflect the phased development, consultation, validation, pilot testing, revision, and finalization process for the competency-based Colapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR) curriculum and comprehensive training package over the 6-month assignment period.

Milestone / Deliverable

Description

  1. Approval of Inception Report and Workplan

Submission and approval of inception report, including methodology, detailed workplan, consultation strategy, and confirmed CSSR curriculum development approach.

Payment (%): 15%

2. Approval of Draft CSSR Curriculum Framework

Submission and approval of the competency-based CSSR curriculum framework, including competency mapping, module structure, learning outcomes, instructional methodologies, and assessment strategy.

Payment (%): 20%

3. Approval of Draft CSSR Training Package – Phase 1

Submission and approval of initial draft training materials covering priority modules, including draft facilitator guide, participant workbook, slide deck, exercises, and draft evaluation tools.

Payment (%): 20%

4. Approval of Full Draft CSSR Training Package and Technical Recommendations

Submission and approval of the full draft CSSR training package, including facilitator guide, participant workbook, slide deck, exercise and simulation guide, assessment system, reference compendium, and CSSR training facility and equipment recommendations.

Payment (%): 25%

5. Approval of Final CSSR Training Package and Completion Report

Submission and approval of finalized CSSR training package and completion report, incorporating all comments and recommendations from technical reviews, validation workshops, and endorsement sessions.

Payment (%): 20%

L. Itinerary: Any official travel required during the contract period must be approved in advance by the supervisor. Approved travel expenses will be covered by ADPC in accordance with its travel policy and will be reimbursed separately from the consultant’s remuneration.

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.

M. Selection Method: The consultant will be selected in accordance with ADPC’s recruitment process

How to apply

Interested individuals are invited to submit a completed ADPC application form (downloadable from www.adpc.net), along with a resume, copies of degrees/certificates, and a cover letter, to: procurement@adpc.net

The email subject should clearly indicate the position being applied for, for example:

[Development of Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR) Curricula for the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), India, Name of Candidate]

Female applicants are especially encouraged to apply.

ADPC values diversity and fosters an inclusive work environment, welcoming applications from qualified candidates regardless of background.