India is preparing a new joint funding framework where the Centre and States will together finance heatwave mitigation, cooling infrastructure, and climate resilience measures.

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• India is expected to finalize a joint Centre-State funding mechanism for heatwave mitigation and climate resilience planning in the coming weeks.
• The proposed framework follows growing concerns over rising extreme heat events and increasing pressure on public health and urban infrastructure systems.
• National Disaster Management Authority officials stated that both central and state governments will jointly pool disaster mitigation and response resources.
• The funding structure may utilize State Disaster Response Funds, State Disaster Mitigation Funds, and national-level disaster financing mechanisms for coordinated action.
• The initiative follows a 2024 policy decision allowing disaster mitigation funds to be used specifically for addressing extreme heat and cooling solutions.
• The Sixteenth Finance Commission has also recommended formally notifying heatwaves as a recognized disaster category within India’s disaster management architecture.
• Officials emphasized that mitigation focuses on reducing heat exposure and investing in cooling systems rather than only managing post-heatwave health emergencies.
• The proposed policy shift could strengthen India’s long-term climate adaptation strategy as heatwaves become increasingly frequent and severe across multiple states.