How Are Villages in Haryana Shaping Climate Strategy?
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Synopsis
Haryana is revolutionizing its climate response through a new State Action Plan that places villages at the forefront. This initiative aims to empower rural communities and enhance resilience against climate change. Discover how local action can lead to sustainable transformation across the state.
Key Takeaways
- Villages are central to Haryana's climate strategy.
- The SAPCC aims to enhance community resilience.
- Focus on local solutions is critical for effective climate action.
- Collaboration with organizations provides necessary support.
- Empowering local leaders is key to sustainable transformation.
Chandigarh, July 30 (NationPress) Haryana is transforming its approach to climate change with a new State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) that prioritizes villages as the cornerstone of its strategy, stated Additional Chief Secretary (Environment, Forests, and Wildlife) Anand Mohan Sharan on Wednesday.
The initiative aims to empower rural populations, enhance community resilience, and synchronize climate objectives with the state's overall development framework.
During his keynote address at the 'Agri-Jal Samvad: Enabling Ground-Level Climate Action-State Level Consultation' event focused on the revised climate change plan, Sharan introduced a visionary concept to position each village as a pivotal center for climate action.
"Climate change is not merely a global issue; it's a local challenge that affects our farmers, families, and agricultural lands," he remarked.
As irregular rainfall, severe heatwaves, and declining groundwater levels jeopardize Haryana’s agriculture-based economy, the urgency for action is evident.
With more than half of the state’s populace dependent on agriculture, escalating water shortages are pushing rural communities to their limits.
"Building resilience is essential; it is not optional," the Additional Chief Secretary emphasized.
The updated SAPCC acts as the state’s detailed framework for climate action, concentrating on vital sectors such as agriculture, water, biodiversity, forests, and health, with clear and quantifiable targets.
The plan combines ambition and practical steps, promoting crop diversification, natural farming, and community-driven water budgeting initiatives. It also integrates climate objectives into existing programs like MGNREGA and the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, ensuring alignment between policy and financial resources. A key aspect of this plan is its focus on localization.
"The effects of climate change are first felt in villages, thus solutions need to originate there," Sharan highlighted.
This strategy empowers Gram Panchayats to embed climate action into their development strategies, secure dedicated funding, and enhance local capacity for sustainable change.
Officials at the district and block levels will receive training to employ a "climate lens" in their operations, ensuring that every decision—from irrigation management to livelihood support—considers climate resilience.
Collaboration is vital to Haryana’s strategy. The state is partnering with organizations such as GIZ and NABARD to infuse technical know-how, innovation, and financial backing at the grassroots level.
Moreover, the state is investigating global climate funding and leveraging corporate social responsibility partnerships to further its climate objectives.
True resilience starts with empowered communities. By equipping local leaders, aligning policies, and nurturing strategic partnerships, Haryana is paving the way for its villages to not just survive climate change but to thrive in spite of it, he concluded.
Point of View
It is evident that Haryana's emphasis on local climate action is crucial. By engaging villages directly in the climate strategy, the state is fostering resilience that can serve as a model for other regions. This approach aligns with a broader national commitment to combat climate change effectively.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) of Haryana?
The SAPCC is a comprehensive framework designed to address climate change impacts, focusing on empowering rural communities and integrating climate goals into the state's development agenda.
Why are villages important in Haryana's climate strategy?
Villages are crucial as they are the first to experience climate impacts. Focusing on rural areas ensures solutions are effective and grounded in local realities.
What sectors does the revised SAPCC target?
The SAPCC targets sectors including agriculture, water, biodiversity, forests, and health, with specific measurable objectives.
How will Gram Panchayats contribute to the climate strategy?
Gram Panchayats will incorporate climate action into their development plans, access funding, and build local capacities for sustainable change.
What role do partnerships play in this strategy?
Partnerships with organizations like GIZ and NABARD are essential for providing technical expertise, innovation, and financial support at the grassroots level.
