Nearly one billion children across the globe are currently facing exposure to significant climate-related risks
OdishaPlus Bureau
India is anticipated to have 350 million children by the year 2050, representing 15% of the worldwide child population, according to UNICEF’s ‘State of the World’s Children 2024’ report published on World Children’s Day, November 20.
Although there is an expected decrease of 106 million children from current figures, the nation stands at a crucial juncture to tackle significant challenges. The UNICEF report emphasizes three major megatrends—demographic changes, climate and environmental emergencies, and emerging technologies—that are poised to transform the lives, rights, and opportunities of children by 2050.
Sustainable Future
Cynthia McCaffrey, the UNICEF India Representative, emphasized the critical need to tackle these emerging trends: “The choices we make today will determine the world that our children will inherit by 2050. Together, we possess both the opportunity and the obligation to create a thriving and sustainable future for every child.”
She further stated, “Prioritizing children and their rights in all strategies, policies, and actions is essential for progress.”
The effects of these significant trends by 2050 will largely rely on strategic investments in key areas such as health, education, gender equality, conflict resolution, urban development, and environmental sustainability.
The report indicates that by the year 2050, Indian children will experience exposure to extreme heat waves that are eight times greater than that observed in the early 2000s. It is anticipated that extreme weather events, air pollution, and flooding will have a particularly severe effect on rural and low-income communities.
Climate Change
“Children are susceptible to both the direct and indirect effects of climate change. By engaging them as proactive participants in the change process, we can collectively tackle these issues,” stated Suruchi Bhadwal from TERI.
Nearly one billion children across the globe are currently facing exposure to significant climate-related risks. As of 2021, India is positioned 26th in the Children’s Climate Risk Index (CCRI), highlighting the susceptibility of its youth to severe heat, flooding, drought, and air pollution.
These challenges could severely impact children’s health, educational opportunities, and their access to vital resources such as water. Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, present both potential benefits and challenges for the children of India.
Digital Divide
Nonetheless, the digital divide is pronounced, with only 26% of individuals in low-income countries having internet access, in stark contrast to over 95% in high-income countries.
The report emphasizes the necessity for fair and inclusive digital progress to guarantee safe access for children. It is anticipated that urbanization in India will reach 50% by 2050, highlighting the significance of developing sustainable and child-friendly urban infrastructure. Allocating resources towards health, education, and skill development is essential for ensuring a prosperous future for children.
Additionally, climate education has been identified as a key focus area, with UNICEF Youth Advocate Kartik Verma asserting that equipping children with knowledge and resources can enable them to contribute to the solution.
Top Priorities
To address the aforementioned challenges and capitalize on available opportunities, the report delineates essential priorities:
- Augmenting investments in education, services, and the development of sustainable, resilient urban environments tailored for children.
- Improving climate resilience within infrastructure, technology, and social support frameworks to protect children.
- Closing the digital divide by ensuring equitable access to connectivity and developing technology solutions that prioritize the safety of all children.
The conclusions act as a call to action, encouraging governments and stakeholders to prioritize the needs of children in policy-making to ensure a more promising and equitable future.
