Strong coordination between ADB and the executing agency, the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), and the high level of government ownership of the program were the keys to developing a program focused on the vulnerable sections of society and to delivering an effective response to the pandemic at unprecedented speed and scale. The program supported key initiatives of the government to mitigate pandemic impacts. ADB and the DEA closely interacted to monitor and report on the progress of program implementation. Two program management units established for monitoring and reporting progress and results—one was dedicated to the health sector under the ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and another to the larger CPRO program under the Department of Expenditure. No compliance issues were encountered and reports were timely submitted. The program experience provides an excellent example of how strong coordination within government agencies and with ADB and country ownership work to ensure highly satisfactory results.
COVID-19 Active Response and Expenditure Support Program