India intensifying efforts to combat climate change: Govt
In a detailed response to the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, outlined India’s proactive stance and robust measures in combating climate change amidst growing global concerns.
Citing the latest findings from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Minister Singh emphasized the unequivocal link between human activities and global warming. He highlighted that global temperatures have risen by 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels during the decade from 2011 to 2020. The IPCC’s report underscores the urgent need for global action to mitigate the widespread impacts on ecosystems, water security, food production, infrastructure, public health, and economies worldwide.
India, as detailed in its Third National Communication to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) submitted in 2023, is experiencing a full spectrum of climate change effects. These include increased occurrences of floods, droughts, heatwaves, and accelerated glacier melt, significantly impacting sectors like biodiversity, agriculture, human health, and urban infrastructure.
To address these challenges, India has adopted a comprehensive strategy under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). This framework includes specific missions focusing on solar energy, energy efficiency, sustainable habitat, and agriculture. Notably, all 34 states and union territories have formulated their own climate action plans in alignment with the NAPCC, demonstrating a cohesive national effort towards climate resilience.
Minister Singh highlighted the government’s commitment to climate adaptation through substantial financial allocations. The National Adaptation Fund on Climate Change has sanctioned projects totaling Rs. 847.48 crore across 27 states and union territories. Moreover, India’s expenditure on adaptation measures has increased from 3.7% of GDP in 2015-16 to 5.6% in 2021-22, underscoring a significant rise in prioritizing climate resilience within national development plans.
“This reflects our steadfast endeavor to integrate climate resilience and adaptation into our development agenda,” Minister Singh affirmed, acknowledging the challenges posed by competing demands across sectors. He emphasized India’s proactive approach in addressing climate change, underscoring the country’s commitment to global climate action.
In conclusion, Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh’s address to the Rajya Sabha provides a comprehensive overview of India’s proactive stance and concerted efforts in combating climate change, underscoring the nation’s commitment to sustainable development amidst global environmental challenges.