Support for climate change adaptation in rural areas of India

Adaptation to climate change is a priority issue in India because many groups in the society lack the resources necessary for tackling climate change adaptation successfully. While climate change will affect the nation’s economy as a whole, its impact will be felt more severely by the poor, who also have the least adaptive capacity. Proactive measures for climate change adaptation can substantially reduce many of the adverse impacts, and thus contribute to securing the livelihoods of the vulnerable rural population.

Recognising this, India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) clearly outlines its first principle as “protecting the poor and vulnerable sections of the society through an inclusive and sustainable development strategy, sensitive to climate change”. The GIZ India is assisting the Indian Government and related institutions in the formulation and implementation of its policy on climate change adaptation and the sustainable management of natural resources.

On behalf of the GIZ India, adelphi supported the development of climate change adaptation actions for rural India. Amongst other things, adelphi designed and tested a capacity building programme for state-level officers on the planning, financing, and implementation of priority adaptation measures. Moreover, adelphi developed a concept for demonstration projects as well as a concept for policy communication, knowledge partnerships and expert forums on climate adaptation and related topics. All tasks were realised in close cooperation with the GIZ India team.