Integrating Climate Risks into the TRUST Framework: A Call from Niti Aayog

India and the U.S. should incorporate climate risks into the TRUST framework, according to Niti Aayog’s Suman Bery. This initiative promotes collaboration in critical technologies and seeks to enhance adaptation strategies as India prepares its first National Adaptation Plan ahead of COP30. Climate finance plays a crucial role in supporting these efforts, emphasizing innovative financing solutions.

Suman Bery, Vice-Chairman of Niti Aayog, emphasized that India and the United States should incorporate climate risks into the TRUST framework established by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former President Donald Trump. This suggestion was made during a conference on climate resilience held on Wednesday. TRUST, which stands for Transforming the Relationship Utilising Strategic Technology, aims to foster collaboration across government, academia, and the private sector to utilize emerging technologies in critical domains, such as defence and artificial intelligence.

In his speech, Mr. Bery pointed out that current initiatives largely focus on technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing. He proposed that climate-related technologies should also be addressed since they represent non-traditional security challenges. Mr. Bery highlighted the unpredictable nature of climate change, where extreme weather can lead to sudden and severe impacts, necessitating flexible governance and enhanced local empowerment for effective adaptation.

Moreover, India is set to prepare its inaugural National Adaptation Plan (NAP), a strategy aimed at addressing climate challenges ahead of the upcoming 30th Conference of Parties in Brazil. Contributions from discussions held at the recent summit could inform the NAP’s development. The importance of adaptation in developing nations is underscored, as it complements ongoing global efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

During the conference, Minister of State for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh remarked on the critical role of climate finance in supporting adaptation initiatives. He emphasized the necessity for increased financial resources to assist vulnerable communities, advocating for innovative financing solutions, such as blended finance and private sector engagement, to enhance public funding for adaptation efforts.

In summary, the recommendation from Mr. Bery to integrate climate risks within the TRUST framework underscores the necessity for India and the U.S. to collaboratively address climate challenges through innovative technologies. The impending National Adaptation Plan illustrates India’s commitment to strengthening its resilience against climate extremes. Additionally, the call for enhanced climate finance highlights the critical support needed for effective adaptation measures, particularly for vulnerable communities.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com