Strengthening Climate Resilience in India
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is taking significant steps to enhance climate resilience across the country. With the increasing impacts of climate change, the IMD has developed a National Framework for Climate Services (NFCS). This framework aims to integrate weather and climate services into various sectoral policies and programs. The NFCS is designed to support decision-making in critical areas such as agriculture, water resources, health, and disaster management. By providing tailored climate services, the IMD seeks to empower stakeholders and improve the nation’s ability to adapt to climate change.
National Framework for Climate Services (NFCS)
The NFCS is a comprehensive initiative that focuses on enhancing climate change adaptation in India. It aims to provide sector-specific weather and climate services to support informed decision-making. For instance, the establishment of Agromet Advisory Services (AAS) assists farmers in making better agricultural choices based on weather forecasts. Additionally, the IMD collaborates with the Central Water Commission (CWC) to forecast floods and droughts, ensuring that communities are prepared for extreme weather events.
Moreover, the NFCS includes health risk mapping to address climate-sensitive diseases. This proactive approach helps in issuing early warnings for vector-borne diseases, thereby protecting public health. The IMD also works with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to strengthen climate resilience through state disaster management plans. By establishing a climate data portal, the IMD provides researchers and stakeholders with access to vital information, fostering collaboration and innovation in climate adaptation strategies.
In October 2023, the IMD organized a stakeholder consultation workshop in Pune to discuss the NFCS-India. This event brought together key ministries and stakeholders to identify gaps and explore solutions for enhancing climate services. The IMD’s commitment to a science-based, policy-driven approach is crucial for building a resilient future.
Advancements in Meteorological Technology
The IMD is continuously upgrading its meteorological observations and forecasting systems. By utilizing advanced tools and technologies, the IMD aims to predict severe weather events with greater accuracy. This includes employing sophisticated dynamical numerical weather prediction models that operate at higher spatial and temporal resolutions. The IMD also utilizes multi-model ensemble methods and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance forecasting capabilities.
Real-time monitoring is facilitated through an improved ground-based and upper-air observation network, complemented by advanced remote sensing technologies. The IMD employs various dissemination tools, including mobile apps, websites, and social media platforms, to ensure timely and effective communication of weather alerts. The Common Alert Protocol (CAP) is also used to streamline the dissemination of critical information.
In recent years, the IMD has demonstrated its ability to provide high-precision early warnings for cyclones and other extreme weather events. The department issues heatwave forecasts and warnings to various stakeholders, including government ministries and local authorities. By using a color-coded alert system, the IMD effectively communicates the severity of impending weather events, enabling disaster management authorities to take appropriate action.
Addressing Vulnerability and Building Resilience
The Government of India recognizes that climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the poor, women, children, and marginalized communities. To address these challenges, multiple initiatives have been implemented focusing on adaptation, resilience-building, and social protection. The Ministry of Earth Sciences collaborates with other ministries to enhance the adaptive capacity of these vulnerable groups.
One such initiative is Impact-Based Forecasting (IBF), which provides localized risk assessments before extreme events like cyclones and floods. This allows communities to prepare and respond effectively. Additionally, Heat Action Plans (HAPs) have been implemented in various cities to protect vulnerable groups, such as daily wage workers and older adults, from extreme heat.
Training and capacity-building programs are also conducted for women, children, and marginalized groups through local NGOs and government agencies. These programs aim to empower communities and enhance their resilience to climate impacts. Furthermore, disaster management authorities are working to strengthen climate-resilient housing and infrastructure in areas prone to flooding and drought.
Collaborative Efforts for Climate Adaptation
The Government of India has launched several initiatives across various ministries to promote climate adaptation and resilience. The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) provides employment opportunities in climate-resilient infrastructure projects, such as water conservation and afforestation. This not only creates jobs but also contributes to environmental sustainability.
The National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC) supports projects that enhance the adaptive capacity of rural and vulnerable communities. These projects focus on agriculture, water management, and disaster preparedness. Additionally, the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) and State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs) incorporate gender and social inclusion measures to ensure that all communities benefit from climate adaptation efforts.
Programs like the Jal Shakti Abhiyan and Atal Bhujal Yojana focus on water conservation and groundwater recharge, particularly in drought-prone regions. The Public Distribution System (PDS) is also being strengthened to ensure food security for low-income communities during climate shocks, such as droughts and floods. These collaborative efforts reflect the government’s commitment to building a resilient and adaptive society in the face of climate change.
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