In the Global Climate Risk Index 2021, India emerged as the seventh most affected nation concerning exposure and vulnerability to climate risk events. This article will delve into the multiple ways climate change impacts India, the initiatives undertaken to tackle the issue, and recommendations for future action.
The Macroeconomic Impact of Climate Change on India
Climate change poses considerable challenges for both the supply (productive potential) and demand side (consumption and investment) of the economy. Furthermore, it can trigger spillover effects across regions and sectors and propagate cross-border impacts and contagion risks.
Consequences on Agriculture and Fisheries
Changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, pest infestation, soil erosion, water scarcity, and extreme weather events due to climate change can cause disruptions in crop cycles and lower agricultural yield. It can also adversely influence the fisheries sector by altering the distribution and behaviour of fish species due to rising sea surface temperatures.
Rising Health Costs and Infrastructure Damage
The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts about 2,50,000 additional deaths per year from malnutrition, malaria, diarrhoea, and heat stress, between 2030 and 2050, due to climate change. Moreover, it could also lead to infrastructure damage affecting roads, bridges, railways, ports, airports, power plants, water supply systems, and buildings.
Reduced Industrial Output and Energy Crisis
Climate change can influence industrial sector operations by increasing the costs and reducing profits due to new climate-friendly regulations and reduced utilisation of old stock. Additionally, it could double India’s primary energy demand by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Implications on Financial Services
Financial services might feel the brunt of climate change due to increased credit risks for banks and financial institutions. The ability of borrowers to repay loans could also be affected by climate-related events like floods, hurricanes, or droughts.
India’s Initiatives to Tackle Climate Change
In response to these challenges, India has laid out several initiatives, including the Panchamrit and the National Action Plan on Climate Change. These actions aim at reducing carbon emissions and increasing renewable energy usage.
Future Recommendations to Combat Climate Change Impacts
To effectively combat climate change impacts, India can enhance its carbon sequestration potential by adopting low-carbon farming practices and expanding its forest cover. Building climate resilience through advanced warning systems and investing in climate-proof infrastructure is also suggested. To facilitate a green transportation revolution, India can promote electric vehicles and establish robust charging infrastructure networks. Additionally, introducing technology-driven solutions for sustainable farming equipped with AI-based analytics, remote sensing, and IoT devices can augment resource optimisation.
Past Questions from UPSC Civil Services Examination on Climate Change
Examining the Previous Year’s Questions (PYQ) about India’s preparation for Climate-Smart Agriculture, ‘Green India Mission’ of the Government of India, and Global Climate Change Alliance can provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. The challenge of climate change is global, thus studying its effects on India, particularly the Himalayan and coastal states, is crucial.
This simplified, facts-oriented examination of the text provides a comprehensive outlook on India’s position in the climate change scenario, focusing on its economic impacts and current and future initiatives towards tackling the issue.