India Reaffirms Commitment to Glacier Preservation

Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Singh, recently addressed the Plenary Session of the High-Level International Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. The conference, held from May 29 to 31, 2025, gathered international experts and policymakers to discuss urgent actions needed to protect glaciers, which are vital freshwater sources and indicators of climate change. In his speech, Singh highlighted the alarming rate of glacial retreat and its implications for water security and biodiversity, particularly in mountain regions like the Himalayas.

Urgent Need for Action on Glacial Retreat

During his address, Shri Singh emphasized that the retreat of glaciers is not just a warning but a pressing reality that affects billions of lives. He pointed out that the phenomenon is accelerating, especially in the Himalayas, which has significant implications for water security and biodiversity. Singh expressed India’s deep concern for the Himalayan ecosystem and outlined ongoing initiatives aimed at monitoring glaciers and adapting to climate change. He stressed the importance of immediate action to address the challenges posed by glacial retreat, which threatens the livelihoods of many communities dependent on these water sources.

India’s Strategic Initiatives for Glacier Monitoring

Shri Singh detailed India’s strategic actions under the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE), a crucial part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). He mentioned the establishment of a Centre for Cryosphere and Climate Change Studies, which focuses on advancing research and monitoring of glaciers and glacial lakes in the Indian Himalayan Region. The Minister highlighted the use of advanced Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies, spearheaded by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), to systematically track changes in glacier mass and dynamics. This coordinated research involves key national institutions, including the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research and the National Institute of Hydrology, which are essential for enhancing scientific understanding and informing policy for sustainable water resource management.

Disaster Preparedness and Regional Cooperation

India has also made strides in disaster preparedness in the Himalayan region by improving early warning systems and mapping risks associated with Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF), coordinated by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Singh underscored the importance of regional cooperation in strengthening resilience against climate change impacts. He called for improved data-sharing frameworks and coordinated responses to the challenges facing mountain ecosystems, emphasizing that collaboration is vital for effective climate action.

Commitment to Global Climate Action

In the global context, Shri Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to equitable climate action, adhering to the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR–RC). He noted that while South Asia contributes minimally to global emissions, it remains highly vulnerable to climate change. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s leadership, India has made significant progress towards its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Key achievements include sourcing over 48% of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuels and reducing GDP emission intensity by 36% between 2005 and 2020. Concluding his address, Singh welcomed the declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation and called for enhanced global cooperation and support for developing countries to safeguard glaciers and ensure a resilient future.

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