India Must Brace Itself for Climate Change

In the face of escalating climate change challenges, India stands at a critical juncture, grappling with the multifaceted impacts of global environmental shifts. The nation’s vulnerability to climate-related disruptions is starkly evident, exacerbated by its heavy reliance on climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and forestry. With a high population density further amplifying these vulnerabilities, the nation faces a pressing need to confront the escalating risks posed by extreme weather events, water scarcity, sea-level rise, and biodiversity loss. Against this backdrop, B Uday Bhaskar, Chief General Manager, NABARD shared his thoughts. Read on. Edited excerpts from the interview.

What are the current climate risks in India?

Climate change presents a formidable challenge globally, with India ranking 7th in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2024, highlighting its vulnerability to its impacts. India’s heavy reliance on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture, fisheries, and forestry, compounded by a high population, exacerbates its susceptibility. Climate change acts as a "risk multiplier," amplifying existing social, economic, and environmental stresses, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Moreover, the nation faces a diverse range of climate risks, including extreme weather events, water scarcity, sea level rise, glacial retreat, and biodiversity loss. These challenges are compounded by shifts in precipitation patterns, temperature regimes, and ecosystems. Coastal cities face heightened vulnerability to rising sea levels, while inland regions contend with erratic rainfall and heatwaves that threaten agriculture and livelihoods. The agricultural sector, a significant source of livelihood for many, is particularly affected by changes in temperature, rainfall patterns, and prolonged droughts, leading to crop failures and income loss.

The IPCC AR6 report underscores India's vulnerability to climate-induced disruptions, especially in crop production. Rising temperatures, heatwaves, droughts, and floods pose significant threats to food security and livelihoods. By 2050, the yield of key crops like rice, wheat, pulses, and coarse cereal could decline by almost 9%, with South India facing a potential 17% decrease in maize production. Moreover, water stress conditions exacerbated by climate change and rising demand are projected to affect 40% of India's population by 2050, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable water management practices and adaptive strategies.

What are some climate-change patterns India should be ready for in the coming years?

India must brace itself for the looming specter of climate change, with rising temperatures, erratic monsoons, extreme weather events, sea level rise, and the grave threat posed to agricultural productivity. The adoption of climate-resilient crops, enhanced water management, and sustainable farming practices are imperative to ensure food security and sustainability in the face of these challenges.

As temperatures soar, heatwaves become more frequent and intense, exacerbating stress in crops, leading to reduced yields, compromised quality, and heightened vulnerability to pests and diseases. Moreover, escalating temperatures intensify water scarcity, escalating evaporation rates, altering precipitation patterns, and straining irrigation systems, exacerbating drought conditions. Such environmental pressures compel farmers to adapt their cropping patterns, often resorting to cultivating heat-tolerant or short-duration crop varieties.

The unpredictability of monsoon patterns poses another formidable challenge. Monsoon rains, vital for India's agriculture, economy, and water resources, face disruption, leading to floods and droughts in various regions. Alongside, sea level rise threatens the vast coastline of India, with saltwater intrusion, coastal erosion, and heightened vulnerability to storm surges emerging as significant concerns.

The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including cyclones, and intense rainfall, wreak havoc on infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods. Climate change-induced glacial retreat in the Himalayas further exacerbates water availability, impacting downstream communities and hydropower generation. The agricultural sector, a lifeline for millions, faces the brunt of climate change impacts. Shifts in temperature and rainfall patterns demand adjustments in agricultural practices, crop varieties, and water management strategies to safeguard food security and livelihoods.

To confront these imminent challenges, India must implement robust mitigation and adaptation strategies, invest in resilient infrastructure, adopt sustainable land and water management practices, promote renewable energy sources, and bolster community resilience through early warning systems and capacity-building initiatives. Collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations, businesses, and communities will be pivotal in effectively tackling the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change.

How can farmers adopt climate-resistant agricultural patterns in the country?

Farmers in India can bolster their resilience to climate change by adopting a range of sustainable agricultural practices. Crop diversification, for instance, involves planting various crops with different water and temperature requirements, including climate-resilient varieties like millets, oilseeds, and pulses. Such diversity spreads risks associated with climate variability and ensures nutritional security.

Efficient water management techniques such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting can mitigate erratic rainfall patterns and water scarcity. Conservation agriculture practices like minimum tillage and crop residue management improve soil health and resilience to extreme weather events while reducing erosion and promoting sustainable land use.

Moreover, integrating trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes through agroforestry provides multiple benefits, including improved soil fertility and biodiversity. Crop rotation and intercropping strategies enhance soil fertility, pest management, and crop productivity, reducing reliance on chemical inputs.

Adopting improved seed varieties suited to local conditions, along with sustainable livestock management practices, contributes to resilience and income diversification. Access to weather forecasting services and capacity-building initiatives further empowers farmers to make informed decisions and adopt climate-resilient practices effectively.

By embracing these approaches, farmers can enhance their resilience, productivity, and sustainability while contributing to food security and rural livelihoods. Government support, research, and partnerships are crucial for scaling up the adoption of climate-smart agriculture nationwide.

What is NABARD's role in the current status quo? What initiatives have been put in place for it?

Since its inception in 1982, NABARD has been a cornerstone in driving sustainable rural prosperity across India. Our economic, social, and environmental investments through our operations, funds, and programs are aligned to meet most of the SDGs like alleviating poverty, removal of hunger, climate action, gender equality, reducing economic prosperity, health, education, infrastructure, etc. NABARD plays a crucial role in addressing climate change and promoting climate resilience in India's agricultural and rural sectors.

One such initiative is the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), established in 1995-96 to provide loans to state governments for rural infrastructure projects under agriculture, social sectors, and rural connectivity to reduce vulnerability to climate change and mitigate associated risks, thus enhancing rural resilience. Another flagship program, the Watershed Development Program (WDF), focuses on conserving soil and water resources, enhancing water availability, and building resilience to climate change. By funding projects that incorporate soil conservation measures, afforestation initiatives, and water harvesting structures, NABARD plays a vital role in mitigating the impacts of droughts and floods, thereby safeguarding rural communities, particularly in highly vulnerable rainfed areas of the country.

Another such is the Tribal Development Program, a family-based and biodiversity-enhancing approach that encompasses elements like planting more than two perennial fruit crops, forestry plantation on the field borders, water resource management, community health, and women's development through SHGs. Over the years, livelihood interventions with non-orchard activities viz. animal husbandry, sericulture, lac, Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), etc. have also been included to cover landless tribal families. So far, 6.27 lakh tribal families stretched across 5.86 lakh acres of land with plantation coverage aided by cumulative grant assistance of 2828.91 crore. About 2.9 crore plants have been planted, which can sequester carbon to the tune of approx. 5.86 lakh tones of Co2 equivalent.

Besides, NABARD has recently launched the JIVA, an agroecological transformation program to pioneer and scale up agroecology as a strategic and transformational approach in watershed and tribal development projects, leveraging the pre-existing natural and social capital. JIVA adopts natural farming as its cardinal principle, balancing ecology and economy in the rural ecosystem following a natural progression (farmer-farm landscape).

NABARD's initiatives extend to promoting climate-smart agricultural practices, financing renewable energy projects, capacity building through training programs, and research and development initiatives under the Farm Sector Promotion Fund. By collaborating with government agencies, NGOs, research institutions, and private sector stakeholders, NABARD leverages resources, expertise, and best practices to scale up climate action in agriculture and rural development.

NABARD has been promoting and supporting Farmer's Producer Organizations of small and marginal farmers for building economies of scale and collective bargaining power and facilitating their credit linkage with banks. Cumulatively NABARD has promoted about 7000 FPOs with a membership of more than 24 lakh farmer members, of which, about 82% are small and marginal. These FPOs are acting as value chain anchors as well as a platform to popularize the adoption of climate-resilient agriculture practices in the country.

NABARD is collaborating with UNDP to co-create data-driven innovations in agriculture and food systems to support smallholder farmers. NABARD is currently hosting a digital public good platform, Data in Climate Resilient Agriculture (DiCRA), to provide access to quality data on Climate Resilient Agriculture (CRA), assist in data-driven decision-making across the agriculture ecosystem in India, and optimize investments.

Are there any growth opportunities for those working on climate-smart agriculture? How?

Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) offers numerous growth avenues spanning technology, services, finance, marketing, and policy sectors. These opportunities emerge from the increasing demand for solutions that boost agricultural productivity, resilience, and adaptation to climate change while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Key areas of growth include technological innovation, advisory services, input supply and distribution, financial instruments, value-added products, capacity building, and policy support.

Investing in research and development of climate-smart technologies like drought-resistant crops, precision agriculture, and soil conservation techniques presents significant opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship. Companies developing these technologies can tap into a burgeoning market seeking sustainable agricultural solutions.

Additionally, there is a rising demand for advisory and consulting services related to climate-resilient crop management, water conservation, and sustainable land use practices. Providing expertise in these areas can be a lucrative business opportunity, serving farmers, policymakers, and agricultural organizations.

Furthermore, companies involved in the production and distribution of climate-smart agricultural inputs, such as seeds and irrigation systems, stand to benefit from the growing adoption of sustainable farming practices. Tailoring products for climate resilience can help capture market share and address the evolving needs of farmers.

NABARD spearheads efforts to promote CSA in India through financing and Incentives, supporting innovation through our subsidiary NABVENTURES and investments in Alternative Investment Funds (AIF) and collaborating with various stakeholders including government agencies, research institutions, and the private sector for holistic CSA implementation.

Given the rise in temperatures this year, what practices can farmers adopt to safeguard crops?

Farmers facing the challenges of a temperature rise can implement various strategies to safeguard their crops and mitigate their impacts. One effective approach is the selection of heat-tolerant crop varieties, which are better adapted to high-temperature environments. Additionally, encouraging the cultivation of less water-intensive crops like millets, oilseeds, pulses, and vegetables can help reduce the strain on limited water resources while maintaining agricultural productivity. These crops require less water compared to traditional staples, making them well-suited for regions prone to water scarcity. Furthermore, adopting mulching techniques can offer multiple benefits, including suppressing weed growth, improving soil structure, and enhancing moisture retention. By implementing these practices, farmers not only enhance water use efficiency but also build resilience to water scarcity, contributing to sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental conservation in water-stressed regions.

Moreover, the adoption of climate change mitigation practices contributes to the overall resilience of agricultural systems. By diversifying crop varieties and promoting water-efficient cultivation methods, farmers can better withstand the adverse impacts of climate change, including heat waves and water shortages. These adaptive measures not only protect livelihoods but also ensure the long-term sustainability of agricultural ecosystems, fostering resilience in the face of evolving climatic conditions. Thus, by embracing these practices, farmers play a vital role in promoting sustainable agriculture and securing food production amid escalating environmental challenges.

How is NABARD helping marginal and tribal farmers strive through the current climatic conditions?

NABARD supports the formation and strengthening of farmer-producer organizations (FPOs) among marginal and tribal farmers. FPOs enable smallholder farmers to collectively access markets, input supplies, and support services, thereby enhancing their bargaining power and economic resilience. By promoting FPOs, NABARD facilitates the integration of smallholder farmers into value chains and helps them adapt to changing market dynamics and climatic conditions.

NABARD also conducts training programs, workshops, and capacity-building initiatives under the Farm Sector Promotion Fund to empower marginal and tribal farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to cope with climate change. These programs cover topics such as sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, crop diversification, and climate-resilient farming techniques. By equipping farmers with appropriate skills and information, NABARD helps them make informed decisions and adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Alongside, NABARD supports the development of rural infrastructure, including irrigation systems, watershed management projects, and rural connectivity initiatives, which benefit marginal and tribal farmers. By investing in infrastructure that improves water availability, soil fertility, and agricultural productivity, NABARD helps farmers cope with climate-related challenges such as droughts, floods, and soil erosion.

Notably, NABARD is implementing various climate change adaptation and mitigation projects through funds viz., Adaptation Fund (AF), National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC), Green Climate Fund (GCF), and Climate Change Fund (CCF), which is helping small, marginal farmers and tribal farmers to adapt and mitigate the effects of climate change.

How is NABARD collaborating with other stakeholders to amplify its initiatives for mitigating climate change?

NABARD works closely with government agencies at the national, state, and local levels to align its climate change initiatives with government policies and programs. By partnering with ministries, departments, and agencies responsible for the environment, agriculture, rural development, and finance, NABARD ensures that its efforts are integrated into broader national strategies for climate action.

NABARD engages with international organizations, multilateral development banks, and bilateral agencies to access funding, technical expertise, and best practices for climate change adaptation and mitigation. NABARD has the unique distinction of being accredited as the National Implementing Entity (NIE) of the Adaptation Fund (AF of UNFCCC) and the Direct Access Entity (DAE) of the Green Climate Fund (GCF of UNFCCC). NABARD is also acting as the NIE of the National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC), instituted by the Government of India. These accreditations have enabled NABARD to become a leader in climate change adaptation programs in the country and to be an integral part of national-level initiatives on climate action.

NABARD partners with NGOs, community-based organizations, and civil society groups to implement on-the-ground climate change awareness, capacity-building, adaptation, and mitigation projects. These partnerships help reach vulnerable communities, build local capacity, and foster community participation in climate resilience efforts.

NABARD collaborates with research institutions, universities, and agricultural colleges to support research and innovation in climate-resilient agriculture, renewable energy, and natural resource management. By partnering with academia, NABARD promotes evidence-based solutions and fosters knowledge exchange to inform its climate initiatives.

NABARD engages with the private sector, including corporate entities in climate-resilient infrastructure and technologies. Through these collaborative efforts with diverse stakeholders, NABARD amplifies its initiatives for mitigating climate change, enhances their impact, and fosters greater sustainability and resilience in India's rural areas.

What could be India's impactful role in addressing the Global Climate Change catastrophe?

India presented the following five nectar elements (Panchamrit) of India’s climate action at the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Glasgow, United Kingdom

• Reach 500GW non-fossil energy capacity by 2030.

• 50 percent of its energy requirements from renewable energy by 2030.

• Reduction of total projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes from now to 2030.

• Reduction of the carbon intensity of the economy by 45 percent by 2030, over 2005 levels.

• Achieving the target of net zero emissions by 2070.

India has the potential to play a significant and impactful role in addressing the global climate change catastrophe in the following ways:

Renewable Energy Leadership: India can continue to lead the way in renewable energy deployment, particularly solar and wind power. Scaling up renewable energy infrastructure and investing in research and development can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions domestically and serve as a model for other countries.

Energy Efficiency Initiatives: Implementing energy efficiency measures across various sectors, including industry, transportation, and buildings, can help reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. India's initiatives in energy-efficient appliances, green buildings, and fuel-efficient vehicles can serve as examples for other nations.

Afforestation and Reforestation: Increasing forest cover through afforestation and reforestation efforts can help sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and preserve biodiversity. India's ambitious tree-planting initiatives, such as the Green India Mission, can contribute to global climate action.

Climate Justice: Climate justice refers to the fair and equitable distribution of the burdens and benefits of climate change mitigation and adaptation, taking into account historical responsibility, the rights of vulnerable populations, and the need for global cooperation. India can engage in international climate diplomacy and collaboration to advocate for ambitious climate justice on a global scale.

Adaptation and Resilience Building:  Given India's vulnerability to climate change impacts, investing in adaptation measures and building resilience is crucial. This includes measures such as improving water management, enhancing agricultural resilience, and strengthening infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events.

Technology Innovation and Transfer: India can contribute to global efforts to develop and deploy climate-friendly technologies by investing in innovation and facilitating technology transfer. This includes technologies for renewable energy, energy storage, carbon capture and storage, and climate-resilient agriculture.

Sustainable Urbanization: As India undergoes rapid urbanization, promoting sustainable urban development practices can help reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and enhance resilience to climate change. Initiatives such as smart cities, public transportation systems, and waste management can contribute to sustainable urbanization.

Public Awareness and Education: Increasing public awareness and education about climate change and its impacts can foster a culture of sustainability and encourage individual and community action. India can leverage its educational institutions, media, and civil society organizations to raise awareness and promote climate-friendly behaviors.

By taking proactive steps in these areas, India can not only address its climate challenges but also contribute meaningfully to global efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change, ultimately helping to avert the worst impacts of the climate crisis.

Is NABARD working towards creating awareness on the dos and don'ts of Climate Change among Indian citizens?

NABARD has been actively involved in creating awareness about climate change and promoting sustainable practices among Indian citizens, particularly in rural areas. Here are some ways in which NABARD is working towards this goal:

NABARD has created its own dedicated Climate Change Fund (CCF) to support awareness-building on Climate Change issues among various stakeholders and to promote and demonstrate innovative Climate Change adaptation/mitigation interventions and climate-resilient livelihoods.

NABARD has also established a Centre for Climate Change at BIRD, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, which is involved in knowledge sharing, training, capacity building of stakeholders, policy advocacy, etc. NABARD conducts training programs, workshops, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at educating farmers, rural communities, and stakeholders about climate change, its impacts, and adaptation strategies. These programs often focus on sustainable agricultural practices, water management, and natural resource conservation.

NABARD supports the adoption of climate-resilient agricultural practices that help farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions. This includes promoting drought-resistant crops, agroforestry, organic farming, and soil conservation techniques. NABARD provides financial assistance for climate change adaptation and mitigation projects in agriculture and rural development. This includes funding for renewable energy projects, watershed management initiatives, and infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing resilience to climate change.

NABARD disseminates information and knowledge about climate change through various channels, including publications, success stories, websites, and outreach activities. These efforts help raise awareness among rural communities and empower them to take action to address climate change.

NABARD partners with multilateral agencies such as UNDP, the World Bank, ADB, GCF, FAO, GIZ, etc. to leverage resources and expertise for scaling up climate-resilient initiatives. These partnerships facilitate knowledge exchange, technical assistance, and financial support for implementing climate projects and programs both within India and in other countries.

NABARD plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the dos and don'ts of climate change among Indian citizens, especially in rural areas where the impacts of climate change are often more acutely felt. By promoting sustainable practices and building resilience, NABARD contributes to building a more climate-resilient and sustainable future for India.