Over 39 Crore Children in India Exposed to Extreme Heat: UNICEF Report Raises Alarm

A concerning report released by UNICEF has highlighted the growing threat of extreme heat and climate change on children in India. According to the report, more than 39 crore children in India are facing exposure to severe heatwaves, accounting for nearly 92% of the country’s total child population under 18 years.

Rising Temperatures Pose Serious Threat to Children

The report warns that increasing temperatures and frequent heatwaves are creating major risks for children’s health, safety, and overall well-being. A large number of children are being forced to live in extremely hot environments, making them vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and other climate impacts.

Apart from extreme heat, around 89 million children are directly affected by heatwaves and other climate-related crises.

India Among Countries Highly Vulnerable to Climate Risks

UNICEF’s assessment on climate vulnerability shows that India has received a risk score of 9.21 out of 10, indicating a high level of vulnerability to climate-related challenges.

Other countries with high vulnerability scores include Pakistan with 9.44 points and Bangladesh with 9.38 points. China scored 8.28, Afghanistan 6.25, Sri Lanka 4.99, Nepal 3.79, and Bhutan 2.11.

Among developed nations, the United States received 6.57 points, Japan 5.61, and the United Kingdom 4.27.

Extreme Heat Identified as Biggest Climate Threat

The report highlights that extreme heat is the most severe climate-related risk in India, receiving a maximum score of 10 points. Other risks include drought (8.84), air pollution (9.94), cyclones (6.36), heatwaves (3.6), dust storms (2.38), and flood-related damage (1.98).

UNICEF has stressed the need for urgent climate action and faster implementation of Heat Action Plans to protect children from rising temperatures.

Climate Crisis Affecting Children’s Future Globally

The report states that more than half of the world’s children are affected by climate-related problems, impacting their education, health, and quality of life.

Countries such as India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Pakistan face greater risks due to their large young populations, making children more vulnerable to climate emergencies.

Heat and Drought Impact Millions Worldwide

According to UNICEF, around 296 million children globally are affected by drought and extreme heat conditions. The report also highlights air pollution as a major concern for children’s health.

It states that nearly 2.3 billion children worldwide live in areas with polluted air. After malnutrition, air pollution is among the leading causes contributing to deaths of children below five years of age.

Air Pollution Crisis Growing in Populous Nations

The report noted that countries with large populations, including India, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Pakistan, are facing increasing challenges due to air pollution.

Long-term exposure to polluted air is affecting children’s respiratory health and increasing the risk of serious health complications.

UNICEF Calls for Immediate Government Action

UNICEF has urged governments to take immediate steps to protect children from the harmful effects of climate change. The report emphasized the need for stronger climate policies, improved disaster preparedness, and effective measures to reduce heat and pollution risks.

Protecting children from climate-related threats, UNICEF said, must become a global priority.