In 2004, UNICEF India launched the “Integrated Districts” (ID) approach in 17 districts across 14 states in India. The ID approach aims to promote community action and the integrated delivery of services through horizontal linkages between line agencies as well as an interface between line departments and communities.  It is thought that such “convergence” will ensure responsive and relevant service delivery. The ID approach was launched against a backdrop of decentralised community management in the country which began with the 73rd and 74th amendments to the national constitution.  Implicit in the ID approach is awareness generation leading to community mobilization; empowerment, collective action, convergence, and inter-sectoral coordination.  Core activities include collective planning for health, nutrition, education, water and sanitation.

UNICEF would like to be able to demonstrate in a clear and concise way the achievements of the programme as well as problems encountered.  To this end, ODI has been asked to produce a briefing paper and key sheets on specific themes of decentralised planning, rights based and inclusive approaches in programming, convergence in service delivery and influencing policy.