Outlook India Examines the Growing Threat of Climate Change in India, and Urges Urgent Action to Prevent Disasters

Climate change is no longer a distant threat but a pressing reality for India, with rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and changing rainfall patterns wreaking havoc across the country. As one of the most vulnerable nations to climate impacts, India is experiencing increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters—floods, droughts, heatwaves, and cyclones—that not only disrupt lives but also threaten the country’s economy, agriculture, and public health. With its vast population, economic development ambitions, and reliance on agriculture, India faces an uphill battle in mitigating and adapting to the growing effects of climate change. Urgent action is required to address this crisis and build a more resilient future.

Rising Temperatures and Extreme Weather Events
India is experiencing rising temperatures at a rate higher than the global average. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the country has seen an increase in average temperatures by about 0.7°C over the past century, with more frequent heatwaves affecting large parts of the nation. Cities like Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru regularly experience temperatures exceeding 40°C during summer months, posing serious health risks, especially to vulnerable populations.

The increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events, such as floods, cyclones, and droughts, have become major concerns for India. In 2020 alone, India faced 25 major climate disasters, including devastating floods in Kerala and Bihar, and severe droughts in parts of Rajasthan and Maharashtra. The unpredictability of monsoon patterns is also affecting water availability, crucial for both drinking and irrigation. These erratic weather conditions are not just disrupting lives but also escalating the economic burden on the country, particularly for agriculture, which employs a large portion of the workforce.

Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods
Agriculture is the backbone of India’s economy, but it is also the most climate-sensitive sector. Changes in rainfall patterns, combined with rising temperatures, are reducing crop yields and increasing the vulnerability of farmers. For instance, erratic monsoons and prolonged dry spells are damaging key crops like wheat, rice, and pulses, leading to food insecurity and loss of livelihoods. Additionally, the rising threat of pests and diseases, exacerbated by warmer temperatures, further threatens food production.

Farmers, especially in rural areas, lack access to modern technologies that could help mitigate the effects of climate change. The absence of resilient farming practices, coupled with poor irrigation infrastructure, makes rural communities highly vulnerable. The challenge, therefore, lies in ensuring that climate-resilient farming practices and adaptive measures are widely adopted.

Urgent Action and Policy Imperatives
Addressing the climate crisis requires urgent and coordinated action across all sectors. India must invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, from flood defenses to drought management systems. The government’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) has outlined strategies for improving energy efficiency, increasing renewable energy capacity, and promoting sustainable agriculture. However, implementation at the grassroots level remains a significant challenge.

India’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, as outlined in the Paris Agreement, is crucial in curbing global warming. The nation has made significant strides in expanding renewable energy capacity, particularly solar power, but there is still a long way to go. Transitioning to clean energy, while phasing out fossil fuels, will not only mitigate climate change but also create jobs in green industries.

Additionally, improving disaster preparedness and early warning systems is essential for minimizing loss of life and property during extreme weather events. Integrating climate change adaptation into urban planning, water management, and rural development will be key to building resilience.