Scientists projected climate change would bring immense suffering to the Indian economy
At least 90 million Indians will not have rice in their stomachs by 2030. The country will be facing an acute food crisis. As a result, more than 23 percent of Indians will have to starve. Scientists have heard such fears.
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)’s “Global Food Policy Report 2022” has presented alarming information.
Wherever the situation is heading, it is a sign of disaster. For a long time, the world has been facing the wrath of climate change.
There is much research going on. According to a recent study, climate change is causing a food and agriculture crisis in large parts of India.
Furthermore, the recent IPCC report warns that rice production in India could fall by 10 to 30 percent due to climate change. India and Pakistan are most at risk. India is an agricultural country. Sometimes heavy rain, sometimes no rain. Intense heat, along with that.
The natural environment required for cultivation is no more, affecting the yield. According to a recent IPCC report, food security in South Asia is facing a crisis due to extreme climate conditions.
A recent report by the UN agency claimed that floods and droughts would increase due to climate change. India, Pakistan, and the adjoining regions will be the worst affected areas.
A report titled ‘Climate Change 2022: Impact, Adaptation, and Crisis’ discusses the climate crisis in Asia’s agriculture and food system. This will cause more problems in India and Pakistan, which are dependent on agro-based economies.
According to that report, 11 states in India will face significant problems if carbon emissions rise. These include West Bengal, Orissa, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab.
In South and Southeast Asia, climate change will negatively affect fish, aquatic plants, and crop production. Maize production may reduce by 25-70 percent.
If the adverse effects of climate change happen, 9.06 crore Indians (22.69 percent more) will be at risk of starvation.
The ‘Aggregate Foot Production’ index measures India’s food production. This index includes food grains, meat, fruits, vegetables, oilseeds, and pulses.
The report further states that between 2041 and 2060, agricultural production expects to decline by 1.8 to 6.6 percent, and by 2080, that production could drop to 7.2-23.6 percent.
