India Leads the Way in Integrating Climate Change into Public Health Policies

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) inaugurated the Climate and Health Solutions (CHS) India Conclave in Delhi. The event focuses on addressing climate change and public health. India's efforts in integrating climate considerations into health policies are highlighted by various key figures.

The government is forging ahead with strategies to safeguard public health while adhering to global climate goals, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra emphasized on Wednesday. At the Climate and Health Solutions (CHS) India Conclave in Delhi, organized by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the focus was firmly on addressing the twin crises of climate change and public health.

The two-day conclave unites policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to develop actionable strategies for India's health sector, the health ministry stated. Chandra underscored the urgent integration of climate factors into health planning in his keynote address.

'The Climate and Health Solutions India Conclave signifies our dedication to creating a climate-resilient health system,' Chandra declared. 'India leads by example, incorporating climate considerations into health policies and emergency responses. Our collaboration with ADB and global partners aims to equip our health sector to handle unexpected climate impacts,' he added. Punya Salila Srivastava, OSD, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, highlighted the proactive steps India has taken, noting the establishment of the Mission on Climate Change and Health and the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH).

(With inputs from agencies.)