Survey: 78 Percent Of Indians Feel The Heat Urging Prompt Policy Action

A new survey conducted by national and international researchers reveals that a staggering 78 percent of Indians have directly felt the impact of global warming. The survey, which shows regional differences in perception, highlights Haryana with the highest at 90 percent and Andhra Pradesh with the lowest at 49 percent, emphasising the nation's vulnerability to climate change. 

At the national level, 82 percent of respondents believe that global warming is happening. However, only 54 percent attribute it primarily to human activities, while the rest consider natural changes as the leading cause. Across states, the majority are concerned that global warming will intensify cyclones, droughts, and water shortages, underscoring the need for effective climate strategies. 

In line with the Paris Agreement, countries, including India, are required to update or submit new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) every five years. Following the 2022 update, India is expected to revise its NDCs again by 2025. In tandem, India is revising its National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), and all 29 states are updating their State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs). These updates aim to better integrate climate concerns into government planning and address the growing impacts of climate change on critical sectors like water and agriculture. 

The survey, part of a report by the Yale Programme on Climate Change Communication titled Variations in Climate Opinions Across India, was released on August 6. The findings provide crucial insights for aligning climate strategies with the public's evolving concerns, ensuring that policies resonate with citizens facing the devastating effects of climate change. 

One of the authors, Thaker, highlighted the importance of public sentiment in shaping climate policies. He noted that Indians perceive a high degree of vulnerability to climate change and strongly support ambitious climate action. This sentiment should guide policymakers in formulating responsive and effective climate strategies. 

The report's authors include Jennifer Marlon, Anthony Leiserowitz, Emily Goddard, Liz Neyens, Swetha Kolluri, Seth Rosenthal, Jennifer Carman, and Naga Raghuveer Modala, all of whom are affiliated with the Yale Programme on Climate Change Communication.