Climate change escalating challenges in Rajasthan, say experts

Jaipur, June 5: Climate change has emerged as a major challenge for Rajasthan, affecting public health, education, nutrition, water security, and livelihoods through rising temperatures, prolonged heatwaves, erratic rainfall, and increasing water scarcity, experts and officials said at a workshop held in Jaipur on Thursday.

The workshop, organised at the Constitution Club on the eve of World Environment Day, brought together government officials, climate experts, and development partners to discuss strategies for strengthening climate resilience and promoting coordinated action.

Speaking at the event, UNICEF Rajasthan Head Rushabh Hemani said climate change is no longer a future concern but an immediate crisis.

“Climate change is no longer a developmental challenge of the future but a crisis of the present. Its impact is felt most severely by children, pregnant women, the elderly, and vulnerable communities. Extreme heat and water scarcity place an additional burden on women and girls,” Hemani said.

He noted that Rajasthan conducted its first state-level climate consultation in 2023, bringing together government departments, technical institutions, and development partners to assess climate risks and enhance coordination for adaptation measures.

Addressing the gathering, UNICEF Chief K.L. Rao highlighted initiatives being undertaken in the health sector to address climate-related challenges.

“In collaboration with the Department of Medical and Health, support has been provided for implementing the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health. District-level programmes have now been established across Rajasthan to identify climate-induced health risks and improve disaster preparedness and response,” Rao said.

He added that climate-sensitive health systems are becoming increasingly important as extreme weather events become more frequent and intense.

Rao also highlighted efforts in the education sector, saying specialised heatwave awareness modules have been introduced in government schools.

“Students and teachers are being sensitised about the causes of extreme heat, associated illnesses, preventive measures, water conservation, and environmental protection,” he said.

Meteorological Centre Director Radheshyam Sharma described water security as a critical pillar of climate resilience and warned that the state’s water resources are under growing pressure.

“Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and groundwater depletion are creating serious challenges. Efforts are underway with various departments to strengthen source conservation, groundwater recharge, rainwater harvesting, water budgeting, and monitoring systems,” Sharma said.

He added that authorities are also working to define key indicators for achieving a water-secure Rajasthan under the state’s long-term development vision.

The workshop featured online sessions by climate and public health experts, who discussed measures to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures and reviewed government initiatives focused on climate adaptation and sustainability.

Officials also stressed the need to strengthen environmental health through improved solid and liquid waste management systems. Initiatives such as resource recovery centres and community-based waste management models are being promoted to create cleaner and healthier communities.

Meanwhile, UNICEF Communication Specialist Ankush Singh announced a new youth-focused climate initiative aimed at developing climate leadership among young people.

“Through the ‘Youth for Climate Action’ programme, young people will receive training in climate science, climate policy, green jobs, sustainable development, carbon markets, and community leadership. The goal is to create a network of climate-aware youth leaders across Rajasthan,”* Singh said.

The workshop concluded with a consensus that climate-resilient health services, water security, climate-smart schools, and active youth engagement will be crucial for safeguarding communities and ensuring a sustainable future amid escalating climate challenges.