Climate Change Threatens India's Food Security and Economy: Key Insights from the Latest Report
A recent climate change report,Climate Change Projections for India (2021-2040), released by Azim Premji University, has raised alarming concerns for India’s future. The study highlights how rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and increasing extreme weather events could disrupt India's economy, food security, and public health over the next two decades.
This blog explores the key findings of the report and their implications for India’s environment and economy.
Rising Temperatures Across India
The report predicts significant temperature increases under two scenarios:
Key Highlights:
Shifts in Rainfall and Monsoonal Patterns
Changes in precipitation patterns are set to reshape India’s monsoons, with widespread implications for agriculture and rural livelihoods:
Implications for Food Security
India’s heavy reliance on monsoons for agriculture makes these climate shifts a grave concern for food production:
Regional Highlights
What Needs to Be Done?
India must act urgently to mitigate the effects of climate change. The report calls for:
Conclusion
India’s battle against climate change is intensifying, with rising temperatures, shifting monsoon patterns, and extreme weather events threatening its economy, health, and food security. The latest climate report serves as a wake-up call, urging policymakers, businesses, and citizens to prioritize sustainability and climate resilience.
Addressing these challenges today is the only way to secure a sustainable future for India tomorrow.
- Moderate Emissions Scenario (SSP2-4.5):By 2057, India’s maximum temperature may rise by 1.5°C.
- High-Emissions Scenario (SSP5-8.5):This temperature rise could occur as early as 2047.
- Leh:Expected to record the steepest rise in both summer and annual temperatures, reaching 1.8°C under the high-emissions scenario.
- Districts Affected:In the high-emissions scenario, 249 districts will see an annual temperature increase of at least 1°C.
- Health Risks:Over 24 districts in coastal and eastern Himalayan regions are projected to face wet-bulb temperatures exceeding 31°C, which could lead to severe health risks like heat strokes.
- Western States (e.g., Gujarat, Rajasthan):Annual rainfall is projected to increase by 20-50%, leading to risks of flooding and soil erosion.
- Northeastern States (e.g., Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim):Rainfall deficits of up to 15% may create drought-like conditions, threatening rain-fed agriculture.
- Monsoons:
- The southwest monsoon is expected to intensify in western regions.
- The northeast monsoon is likely to weaken, reducing rainfall in eastern parts of the country.
- Disrupted Agriculture:Rising temperatures and irregular rainfall patterns could affect crop yields, especially in rain-fed areas.
- Floods and Droughts:
- Western India could face devastating floods, damaging infrastructure and crops.
- Droughts in the northeast may push rural farmers into debt and food shortages.
- Horticulture and Housing:Heavy rainfall in higher-altitude regions like Ladakh could trigger landslides, affecting horticultural practices and damaging traditional homes.
- Himalayan Districts:These regions will bear the brunt of rising temperatures and increased heavy rainfall.
- Coastal Districts:Wet-bulb temperatures exceeding 31°C could make these areas increasingly uninhabitable.
- Urban Areas:Cities may experience more frequent heatwaves, exacerbating health risks and energy demands.
- Policy Action:Policymakers need to design region-specific strategies to adapt to temperature and rainfall changes.
- Infrastructure Resilience:Building flood-resistant infrastructure in vulnerable areas is crucial.
- Sustainable Agriculture:Promoting climate-resilient crops and irrigation methods can help protect food security.
- Community Education:NGOs and educators should focus on raising awareness and preparing communities for climate change impacts.
Reference from:- https://indianexpress.com/article/world/climate-change/climate-change-report-rising-floods-droughts-threats-india-food-security-9674541/