India's Developmental Approach to Climate and Health
The 2025 Global Conference on Climate and Health in Brazil highlighted the significance of integrating climate and health policies. Despite India not officially participating, its developmental programs provide valuable insights for global strategies.
Key Indian Initiatives and Their Impacts
- Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN):
- Addresses nutrition for over 11 crore children in nearly 11 lakh schools.
- Links health, education, agriculture, and food systems.
- Promotes climate-resilient food systems by incorporating millets and traditional grains.
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan:
- Improves sanitation, public health, human dignity, and environmental sustainability.
- MGNREGA:
- Enhances rural livelihoods and restores degraded ecosystems through environmental works.
- Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY):
- Reduces household air pollution and carbon emissions by promoting clean cooking fuel.
Lessons from India's Experience
- Non-health interventions can yield significant health and climate benefits.
- Political leadership is crucial; programs like PMUY and Swachh Bharat benefited from direct involvement of the Prime Minister.
- Community engagement is vital; cultural symbols and local participation enhance program effectiveness.
- Building on existing institutions is more effective than creating new structures.
Challenges and Considerations
- High LPG refill costs under PMUY due to business interests.
- Social and cultural barriers hinder equitable access without sustained support mechanisms.
Framework for Institutionalised Health-Anchored Climate Governance
- Strategic prioritization by political leaders to frame climate policies in terms of immediate health impacts.
- Procedural integration across government departments, embedding health assessments in policies.
- Participatory implementation leveraging health benefits as a mobilizing force.
India's approach demonstrates a need for bold, intersectoral strategies addressing climate and health challenges as interconnected issues. The potential for transformative impact is immense, necessitating a coordinated whole-of-society approach.
