Statement by India on the “Panel discussion on the human rights of older persons in the context of climate change” at the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21st June – 15 July 2021), delivered by Mr. Pawankumar Badhe, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, [Geneva, 30th June, 2021] Statement by India on the “Panel discussion on the human rights of older persons in the context of..
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Statement by India on the “Panel discussion on the human rights of older persons in the context of climate change” at the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21st June – 15 July 2021), delivered by Mr. Pawankumar Badhe, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, [Geneva, 30th June, 2021]

Statement by India on the “Panel discussion on the human rights of older persons in the context of climate change” at the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21st June – 15 July 2021), delivered by Mr. Pawankumar Badhe, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, [Geneva, 30th June, 2021]

Madam President,

India welcomes convening of the Panel, which focusses on the adverse impact of climate change on the full and effective enjoyment of human rights by older persons and appreciates the views shared by the distinguished panel members.

2. We have seen that the unprecedented crisis caused by pandemic has amplified the negative effects of climate change, including on older persons. Recognizing that older persons face various challenges due to their age, India has taken numerous steps to ensure a life of dignity for them.

3. The Government has been implementing schemes and programmes, under ‘National Action Plan for Senior Citizens’, which include financial security, healthcare and nutrition, shelter and welfare, protection of life and property, active and productive ageing and awareness generation. With a view to create a more robust elder care ecosystem in India, the Govt has recently launched the SAGE (Seniorcare Aging Growth Engine) initiative for elderly persons, which is a “one-stop access” of elderly care products and services. ElderLine - a toll free helpline for senior citizens to address their problems during the ongoing covid-19 pandemic, has also been set up.

4. The Prime Minister of India, at the recent Outreach Summit of G-7, gave the call for “One Earth, One Health”, highlighting the importance of global unity, leadership and solidarity to prevent future pandemics and collective action to address climate change. He highlighted the need for Climate Action to include all dimensions of mitigation, adaptation, technology transfer, financing and equity, climate justice and lifestyle change, to provide the necessary space for the developing countries to grow. India is the only G20 country which is on track to meet its Paris commitments, which are 2 degree compatible.

Thank you, Madam President.