Karnataka Rolls Out Rs 52,827 Crore Climate Action Plan Amidst Political Delays and Urgent Environmental Challenges
Image Source: Deccan Herald
Rising climate change in Karnataka has led to the implementation of the Karnataka State Action Plan on Climate Change (KSAPCC), recently green lit by the central government after a three-year wait. This comprehensive strategy, prepared by the Environment Management and Policy Research Institute (EMPRI), outlines critical measures across sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, and renewable energy. The plan requires an estimated Rs 52,827 crore from 2025 to 2030 to be fully implemented.
The plan emphasizes a comprehensive multi-sectoral approach, which is critical to addressing the twin risks of floods in the southern region of Karnataka and ongoing drought in the northern and eastern regions. Top officials of the Union Ministry of Renewable Energy emphasised the need to start these projects immediately after the Model Code of Conduct was withdrawn following the election results on June 4, 2024. This structured strategy includes extensive afforestation efforts, enhanced water conservation, and the promotion of renewable energy sources.
In addition, the national approach includes a complex system of departmental cooperation, with each department formulating specific action plans with clear performance indicators. The impending implementation, to be overseen by the state department of renewable energy, will soon be presented to the Karnataka cabinet. This comprehensive strategy aims to effectively address the subtle challenges of climate change, thereby enhancing the resilience of urban and rural communities.
Financial experts involved in the plan’s creation argue that significant funding could be sourced from Corporate Social Responsibility allocations to further support these climate initiatives. This perspective aligns with views from the municipal administration that stress the need for rectifying civic planning flaws to prevent urban flooding, which has been exacerbated by poor planning models.
The approval came after a three-year delay due to political wrangles over funding, especially after the 2023 Assembly elections, which created tensions between the state and the central government. The debate was mainly on drought relief and financial support for climate schemes, with Karnataka seeking Rs 18,000 crore for drought relief in 2023-24.
The National Environmental Care Foundation, Mangaluru, emphasised the importance of this approval, stating, “The Karnataka State Action Plan on Climate Change – Version 2, submitted in April 2021, outlines critical strategies and measures to combat climate change across various sectors. After a three-year wait, the plan’s approval marks a significant step towards mitigating the adverse effects of climate change in the state.”
After the 2023 Assembly elections, the Karnataka state government and the central government faced a political tussle over financial assistance for drought relief and weather programs. Karnataka sought Rs 18,000 crore for drought relief in the economy in 2023-24. Karnataka Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Priyanka Kharge highlighted the gravity of the situation: “In between, 236 talukas are ‘drought affected.’ We have already reported such large-scale drought conditions are a serious consequence of climate change.”
The strategies include large-scale afforestation efforts, increased water storage, and the promotion of water-efficient agricultural practices. Furthermore, economists involved in the policy development process suggest that companies should be encouraged to allocate a significant portion of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds towards climate change mitigation.
The finalized KSAPCC reflects a critical step forward in Karnataka’s fight against climate change, driven by comprehensive strategies developed by local experts and supported by national directives. As the state gears up for the post-election implementation phase, there is a collective emphasis on swift and effective action to mitigate the far-reaching impacts of climate disruptions on Karnataka’s diverse landscapes and populous cities. This plan not only aims to restore ecological balance but also to secure a sustainable future for all residents amidst increasing environmental adversities.
Sources:
EMPRI Karnataka Government Website – This site provides extensive information on the KSAPCC and other environmental initiatives by the Environment Management and Policy Research Institute (EMPRI). – https://empri.karnataka.gov.in/en
Karnataka State Plan on Climate Change 1st Assessment – https://moef.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Karnataka.pdf
Karnataka State Plan on Climate Change Version-2 – https://nammakpsc.com/articles/the-karnataka-state-action-plan-on-climate-change-version-2-sapcc/
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- Yangchula Bhutia is a budding journalist currently pursuing her Master's degree in Journalism at Jadavpur University. Her passion lies in environmental issues, and she aspires to make a difference through impactful storytelling focused on environmental challenges and solutions.
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