India Faces Growing Climate Crisis with Rising Temperatures and Health Risks
India Faces Growing Climate Crisis with Rising Temperatures and Health Risks
IN · Published Oct 29, 2026
• India is grappling with a worsening climate crisis, as highlighted in the Lancet Countdown’s 2026 report. The report reveals that rising temperatures, air pollution, and reliance on fossil fuels are significantly impacting public health and livelihoods. Heat-related losses have resulted in the loss of work hours equivalent to ₹193 billion annually. Additionally, PM2.5 pollution was linked to 2.2 million deaths in
• The report also highlights the increasing prevalence of diseases like dengue and malaria, as well as rising deaths caused by wildfire smoke. The findings underscore the urgent need for climate policies that prioritise public health and address the funding gap for climate adaptation measures.

Impact & Risks

The climate crisis is having severe consequences for India, with significant economic and health impacts. The loss of work hours due to heat-related issues is costing the country ₹193 billion annually, while air pollution is contributing to millions of premature deaths. The spread of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria is also on the rise, posing a growing threat to public health. Additionally, the increase in wildfire smoke-related deaths highlights the broader environmental and health risks associated with climate change. Vulnerable populations, including outdoor workers and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly at risk.

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