Paper: GS – III, Subject: Environment and Ecology, Topic: Indian Initiatives, efforts and Commitments, Issue: India’s climate adaptation gap.
Context:
India to address its climate adaptation gap in light of increasing climate hazards and their potential impact on economic growth.
Key Takeaways:
- Human societies have historically adapted to extreme weather conditions, and India has a rich legacy of such innovations.
- Ancient irrigation systems like the Kallanai dam to the stepwells of western India, these adaptations have allowed communities to thrive despite climatic challenges.
Current State of Climate Adaptation in India:
Financial Expenditure:
- India currently spends approximately $13 billion annually on climate adaptation.
- This amount is just over 10% of what is required to meet developed economy standards for protecting exposed populations.
Projected Costs:
- By 2050, if global warming reaches 2°C, India’s annual adaptation costs could exceed $200 billion.
- The costs are expected to rise significantly due to the increasing frequency and intensity of climate hazards.
Population Exposure:
- More than 80% of India’s land area is already exposed to climate hazards, affecting nearly 90% of its population.
- By 2050, nearly all of India’s population is projected to face at least one climate hazard.
For Policymakers – Climate Resilience Measures:
- Early Warning Systems
- Infrastructure Investment: Strengthen urban drainage, resilient power grids, and climate-proof public infrastructure.
- Mainstream Adaptation: Integrate climate resilience into urban planning, transport, energy, and industrial projects at the design stage.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Enforce climate-resilient building codes, land-use planning norms, and worker safety standards.
India has the resources and institutional strength to implement effective climate adaptation. Bridging the adaptation gap is vital to protect livelihoods, sustain productivity, and secure long-term economic growth. Proactive investment in resilience will be crucial for India’s sustainable and future-ready development.
Source: (Live Mint)
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