Extreme heat poses significant risks to public health, labour productivity, and water security in India. Vulnerable groups, including informal workers and women, are disproportionately affected. Heat stress has already led to substantial economic losses, threatening poverty reduction and gender equality gains. Without coordinated action, the impacts of heatwaves could worsen, affecting ecosystems and urban infrastructure. The lack of long-term financing and integrated governance further exacerbates the challenge, limiting the scalability of effective solutions. Immediate action is required to mitigate these risks and protect communities from the adverse effects of extreme heat.