Climate Change as a National Security Issue

1. The discussion on climate change often misses how it directly affects national security.
2. Many people see disasters as threats that don’t concern them, but these events can significantly impact individual lives and the overall stability of a nation.

The Link Between Disasters and National Security

1. Disasters can cause major economic problems, threatening national goals like becoming a $5-trillion economy. A stable economy is key to national security; without it, ambitions can’t be achieved.
2. Individuals often think disasters affect “other people.”
3. However, a major disaster can disrupt the lives of even the most secure families, leading to a lack of awareness about how widespread these effects can be.
4. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2016 speech at the Asian Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction stressed the need for risk coverage for everyone, from small families to large companies.
5. This shows that disaster risk is crucial for national security.

Importance of Disaster Risk Insurance:

1. 2 Main Aspects of Risk Coverage:
   • Physical Safety: Having early warning systems and good disaster responses is essential for protecting lives and property.
   • Financial Support: Effective insurance can help people and communities recover financially after disasters, building resilience for the future.
2. Global Examples: Many countries use disaster risk insurance successfully. These systems help people recover faster and rebuild stronger after disasters, aligning with the idea of “building back better.”
3. Indian Context: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in India has started discussions with insurance companies to create models that address disaster risks effectively.
4. Parametric insurance is a promising option, as it simplifies claims by using set conditions instead of individual assessments.

Human Security and National Security:

1. Areas that frequently face disasters often see an increase in extremist ideologies targeting displaced people.
2. Economic and social struggles can lead to illegal migrations and unrest, complicating national security.
3. Historical Examples:
   • The 1991 super cyclone in Bangladesh caused significant loss of life and displacement, creating conditions for radicalization.
   • Haiti’s 2010 earthquake led to mass migration due to the government’s failure to help, impacting the security situation in the U.S.
   • Drought in Africa has caused social unrest and debt issues, showing how climate change affects wider global stability.
4. Regional Threats: In Pakistan, the aftermath of the 2022-23 floods created vulnerabilities for millions of displaced people. These conditions can be exploited by extremist groups, potentially destabilizing the region further.

Institutional Framework for Disaster Management in India:

1. In the 1990s, a disaster management cell was created under the Ministry of Agriculture following the ‘International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction.’
2. After significant events like the Orissa Super Cyclone (1999) and the Bhuj Earthquake (2001), a committee developed a comprehensive disaster management strategy, leading to a structured hierarchy.
3. In 2002, the disaster management division was moved under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Key Organizations:

1. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): Formed by the Disaster Management Act of 2005, the NDMA is the top body responsible for creating and implementing disaster management policies and guidelines.
2. National Executive Committee (NEC): Established by the Disaster Management Act, the NEC coordinates and oversees disaster management efforts.
3. State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs): The Act provides for the establishment of SDMAs in all states and Union Territories.
4. State Executive Committees (SECs): Led by the Chief Secretary of the State, SECs coordinate disaster management at the state level.
5. District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA): Each district is required to have a DDMA, which plans and implements disaster management measures according to established guidelines.
6. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): Created by upgrading battalions of Central Para Military Forces to respond effectively to disaster situations.
7. State Disaster Response Force (SDRF): Functions similarly to the NDRF but operates at the state level.

Legal Framework and Policies:

To ensure effective disaster response, the government has introduced several regulations and guidelines:

1. Disaster Management Act 2005: This Act shifted the focus from reactive measures to preparedness, prevention, and planning.
2. National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM) 2009: Aims to create a disaster-resilient India through a holistic and proactive approach to prevention and response.
3. National Disaster Management Plan 2018: Provides a framework for all phases of the disaster management cycle and emphasizes a multi-hazard approach involving various stakeholders.
4. 10-point Agenda for Disaster Risk Management: Presented at the Asian Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in 2016, this agenda addresses community preparedness, technology use, and international cooperation.

Challenges and Future Directions:

Climate Action Commitment:

On October 16, 2024, a Union Minister emphasized the urgent need for action against climate change during the SDG Summit 2024 in New Delhi, highlighting that climate change is a pressing issue affecting lives, economies, and the planet.

Commitment to Climate Action:

1. The minister recognized India’s role as a rapidly growing economy and reiterated the country’s commitment to balancing sustainable development with global climate efforts.
2. The importance of setting science-based targets aligned with the Paris Agreement was highlighted.

Climate Targets:

Key climate goals outlined include:

1. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 33-35% by 2030 (compared to 2005 levels).
2. Increasing non-fossil fuel energy capacity to 500 GW.
3. Achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

Role of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):

The NAPCC, launched in 2008, serves as a key framework for climate action. It includes eight major missions addressing various aspects of climate adaptation and mitigation:

1. National Solar Mission: Promotes solar energy technologies, aiming for 100 GW of solar power capacity by 2022.
2. National Wind Energy Mission: Expands wind energy capacity and encourages technological innovation.
3. National Mission for Energy Efficiency: Enhances energy efficiency through initiatives like the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme.
4. National Mission on Sustainable Habitat: Promotes energy efficiency in buildings and urban planning.
5. National Water Mission: Focuses on water conservation and equitable distribution.
6. National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem: Protects the delicate Himalayan ecosystem through research and monitoring.
7. National Mission on Agricultural Adaptation: Builds resilience in agriculture by promoting sustainable practices.
8. National Mission on Green India: Aims to increase forest cover and restore degraded ecosystems.