India's Welfare Programs Offer Lessons for Global Climate-Health Governance and the Belem Health Action Plan
At the 2025 Global Conference on Climate and Health in Brazil, India’s welfare initiatives were highlighted as models for integrating climate and health goals. Programs like PM-POSHAN, Swachh Bharat, MNREGA, and PM Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) demonstrate how non-health interventions can generate significant health and climate co-benefits. For instance, PMUY reduces indoor air pollution while cutting carbon emissions. The article advocates for a framework of institutionalized, health-anchored climate governance built on strategic prioritization, procedural integration (like health impact assessments), and participatory implementation using health as a mobilizing force for community engagement.
Key Points
- The Belem Health Action Plan, to be launched at COP30, aims to define the global agenda on climate and health.
- India's PM-POSHAN scheme addresses malnutrition while building climate-resilient food systems through millet promotion.
- The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) has successfully linked clean energy access to improved respiratory health and lower emissions.
- Effective climate action requires embedding health impact assessments into all climate-relevant policies across government departments.
Exam Facts
- PM-POSHAN is India's flagship nutrition scheme covering over 11 crore children.
- The 2025 Global Conference on Climate and Health was hosted by Brazil with delegates from 90 countries.
- COP30 is scheduled to be held in November 2025.
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