Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 6: India’s Himalayan region requires nearly USD 102 billion annually to meet climate change adaptation and mitigation costs, according to a synthesis report released by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD).

ICIMOD, which focuses on conservation of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region, said the mountain system is facing escalating climate risks including rapid glacial melt, biodiversity loss and extreme weather events. These threats endanger ecosystems, livelihoods and the well-being of billions of people who depend on the region’s resources.

The HKH region spans eight countries — India, China, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Bhutan — and plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, economic activity and social stability. It provides freshwater to billions, supports rich biodiversity and sustains livelihoods across upstream and downstream regions.

According to the report, the entire HKH region requires an estimated USD 768.68 billion per year to address climate adaptation and mitigation needs, based on the UNFCCC’s First Determination Report (2020) and national climate documents.

The study highlighted a sharp imbalance in funding requirements, noting that India and China together account for over 92 per cent of the total financial needs. China alone requires around USD 605 billion annually, while India needs about USD 102 billion.

Among other countries, Pakistan requires approximately USD 40.12 billion per year, followed by Bangladesh and Nepal, each needing around USD 8.95 billion annually. ICIMOD warned that countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Myanmar and Pakistan face severe financing gaps when measured against their GDPs, making them particularly vulnerable to climate impacts.

The report said climate finance in the HKH region must prioritise sectors such as agriculture, water resources, energy and urban development to effectively address growing climate challenges.