Suman Bery, Vice-Chairman of Niti Aayog, advocates for integrating climate risks into the TRUST framework established by India and the U.S. during Prime Minister Modi’s visit. The TRUST initiative focuses on collaboration in critical technologies and aims to enhance adaptive strategies for unpredictable climate challenges. As India prepares its National Adaptation Plan, collaborative efforts and adequate climate finance are deemed essential for effective climate adaptation.
Suman Bery, the Vice-Chairman of Niti Aayog, emphasized the necessity for India and the United States to incorporate “climate risks” and associated technologies into the recently established TRUST framework. This statement was made during a conference where he discussed the importance of expanding collaborative efforts between both nations regarding climate change.
The TRUST framework, which was signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States in February, rebrands the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies from the Biden administration. It focuses on government, academia, and private sector collaboration in areas such as defense, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, energy, and space.
Mr. Bery suggested that while current initiatives prioritize artificial intelligence and quantum sciences, collaboration on climate issues could represent non-traditional security needs. According to him, integrating climate risks into government schemes should evolve to enhance preparedness for unpredictable climate events, which require a responsive approach from Indian authorities.
As India prepares its first National Adaptation Plan (NAP) to address climate extremes, deliberations from the recent summit may inform this strategic roadmap. The NAP is expected to be finalized ahead of the 30th Conference of Parties in Brazil this November, with prior workshops held to gather insights.
Climate adaptation is essential for developing nations to face climate challenges, as highlighted by Minister of State for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh, who underscored the importance of climate finance. He stressed that substantial funding is necessary to support adaptive initiatives for vulnerable communities, advocating for innovative financing mechanisms that combine public and private sector efforts to strengthen adaptation strategies.
In conclusion, expanding the TRUST framework to include climate risks and technologies presents a vital opportunity for India and the United States to address pressing climate challenges collaboratively. The emphasis on preparation and adaptability, as articulated by Mr. Bery and supported by Minister Singh’s emphasis on climate finance, illustrates the importance of proactive measures and resources to ensure the resilience of vulnerable populations amid climate change. This initiative is crucial as India formulates its National Adaptation Plan ahead of upcoming global discussions.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
