STRUCTURED TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
Background
The MIA is a leading technical service provider in microinsurance domain knowledge and has developed and tested its own model for structured implementation of community-based microinsurance (CBHI) schemes.
Our Capacities
The MIA has developed a series of comprehensive training modules that provide low-income communities with the necessary knowledge and skills to create, administer and govern their own Micro Insurance Units (MIUs). We have proven operational and project management experience, and our staff members are native to the project locations and speak the local languages.
Our Approach
We develop technical assistance modules that are innovative, interactive, and practical, offering holistic solutions to match the local context. We work in partnerships with local organizations and community members to develop training modules and tools that can optimally match the needs, the level of awareness and the level of organization of the future beneficiaries. This process respects the community's priorities and fosters local responsibility.
Action
Our main activity is to facilitate and support the set up of community operated and managed MIUs through a complete suite of Training of Trainer (TOT) manuals and courses. We have developed Insurance Education tools that help even the illiterate and innumerate understand the value proposition of microinsurance. Our game-like tools (CHAT and Treasure Pot) further help to explain microinsurance and assist community members in developing a benefit package that meets their needs and ability to pay. We also have developed a superior Management Information System (MIS) for microinsurance to support claims processing and scheme administration at the ground and federated structure. Our scheme offers links to reinsurance providers and government sponsored schemes to enhance sustainability and create synergies with local processes and initiatives. We currently have implementation projects in 10 districts among 5 Indian states (Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Orissa, and Uttar Pradesh) and 2 districts in Nepal (Banke and Dhading). Our focus remains on finding solutions to the challenges of microinsurance. Once we have rigorously tested our approach efforts will be directed towards scaling and adapting methodologies to further geographical contexts. In summary, our model develops a process for affiliation, premium collection, claims processing, and sustainability.
Our Model
The MIA has developed a novel, evidence-based model for implementing community-based insurance schemes. It follows the principles highlighted below:
- Inclusive
We do not believe that vulnerable groups should be excluded from insurance. Through various risk equalization mechanisms even high risk groups can be insured without overburdening the system.
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En-Bloc Affiliation
En bloc affiliation diversifies the risk amongst all members in the community and reduces incidences of adverse selection. It also helps to ensure holistic protection for all.
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Subsidiarity
We encourage community involvement to the fullest extent possible and maximize the use of local resources and capacities.
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Mutuality and Solidarity
Our schemes exist for the benefit of the members and aims to harness democratic action to strengthen capacity in meeting the basic community needs.
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Responsiveness to Local Needs
We present the community members with the opportunity to develop the most appropriate benefit package that matches local needs and willingness to pay.
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Sustainability
We are committed to training the ground structure team to survive independently. Through high-caliber information technology and links to reinsurance, our intervention minimizes administration and distribution costs, and increases financial sustainability.