The State’s efforts, encapsulated in the Dehradun Declaration, highlight the importance of collaboration and community empowerment

The Uttarakhand Council of Science and Technology (UCOST) recently organised a significant workshop in Delhi, focusing on climate resilience and disaster management, with a particular emphasis on Himalayan states. This workshop attracted eminent scientists, disaster management experts, and advocates of climate resilience, underscoring the pressing need to address environmental challenges in the region. This initiative follows Uttarakhand’s landmark 2023 International Conference in Dehradun, which drew participants from approximately 50 countries.

The conference culminated in the adoption of the “Dehradun Declaration,” a comprehensive action plan aimed at fostering collaboration, innovation and effective strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change and natural disasters in Himalayan states. Uttarakhand’s proactive approach to uniting stakeholders on these critical issues is both commendable and necessary.

Rationale Behind Uttarakhand’s Initiatives

Uttarakhand’s unique geographical and cultural significance drives its commitment to addressing climate resilience. With the second-largest Himalayan boundary after Arunachal Pradesh, the state plays a pivotal role in supporting Northern India’s vast hinterland.

The region’s popularity as a hub for tourism, religious pilgrimages such as the Char Dham Yatra, and adventure activities exerts considerable  pressure on its fragile ecosystem.

The state faces recurring natural calamities, including forest fires, landslides, cloudbursts, and glacier shrinkage. These disasters significantly impact local communities, strain state resources, and demand robust measures to minimise their devastating effects. By organising international workshops and fostering collaborations, Uttarakhand aims to raise awareness, share best practices and leverage technology, such as data analytics and artificial intelligence, to design both preventive and responsive strategies.

Highlights of the Dehradun Declaration

The Dehradun Declaration lays out a comprehensive framework for building climate resilience and disaster preparedness in Himalayan states. Its key features include:

Strengthening Preparedness

Integrating disaster resilience into educational curricula.

Framing regulations to protect vulnerable populations. Developing financial tools and frameworks to advance the “science of survival.”

Protecting the Himalayan Ecosystem

Merging indigenous knowledge with traditional community practices.

Promoting nature-based solutions and active community engagement.

Enhancing institutional collaboration for project monitoring and execution.

Empowering Communities

Establishing community-based early warning systems.

Educating and equipping communities to take local measures.

Strengthening livelihoods and building local networks of like-minded individuals.

Policy Integration

Establishing an Institute of Disaster Management and a global center for climate resilience.

Formulating policies based on national and international best practices.

Coordinating among state, central, and international organisations.

Promoting Innovation

Supporting startups and entrepreneurs in developing tools and technologies for climate resilience.

The Delhi Workshop and Global Consensus

The Delhi workshop served as a follow-up to the Dehradun Declaration and brought together disaster management scholars, international organisations, and corporate representatives engaged in CSR activities. Participants praised Uttarakhand’s efforts to convene diverse stakeholders, emphasising that protecting the Himalayan ecosystem is a shared responsibility.

The Himalayas, often referred to as the “Soul of India” and the “Third Pole,” are crucial for maintaining ecological balance. Workshop attendees agreed on the need for collective action to address challenges such as unchecked tourism and resource exploitation. Recommendations included regulating plastic use, promoting organic farming, imposing green taxes on vehicles, and training locals to mitigate post-disaster damage.

National Perspectives on Climate Resilience

The recently concluded COP 29 in Baku included an agenda to establish a global fund for addressing climate change. Developed nations were urged to allocate higher budgets to support developing and poorer countries in reducing carbon emissions.

Training volunteers at the village level and connecting them through a centralised platform can foster trust and confidence in disaster preparedness efforts.

(The writer is a retired IAS officer and president of Society of Digital Entrepreneurs; views are personal)