Nepal’s devastating floods have once again exposed the uncomfortable truth that climate change is no longer a distant environmental concern but a crisis with immediate and deadly consequences. India’s call for developed countries to take the lead in cutting emissions is both justified and timely. Nations that industrialised over decades while releasing a disproportionate share of greenhouse gases cannot expect developing countries to shoulder an equal burden today.
The principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities must therefore remain central to global climate negotiations. Developing countries need greater access to climate finance, technology and capacity-building support to adapt to increasingly extreme weather. Such assistance should not be treated as charity. It is part of a broader responsibility arising from the historical contribution of industrialised nations to the climate crisis.
At the same time, the Nepal tragedy should push countries across the region to strengthen disaster preparedness and climate resilience. India’s prompt support for Nepal is welcome, but rescue and relief can address only the aftermath. The larger challenge is to make climate action measurable, adequately funded and equitable. The victims of climate disasters cannot afford another round of diplomatic promises without meaningful action.