India has made remarkable strides in climate resilience which is reflected in the 2025 Global CRI published by Germanwatch. The improved ranking of the country, amidst a slew of extreme weather events, underlines its increasing capability to manage disasters and adapt to climate risks while highlighting further needs in investment in sustainable infrastructure and policy frameworks.
What is the Global Climate Risk Index?
The Global Climate Risk Index ranks countries according to the effects of weather-related events like floods, storms, heatwaves and cyclones. It considers both human casualties and economic losses in the perspective of short-term annual impacts and long-term trends. The lower the ranking number with the better prepared and managed a country is toward climate related challenges.
India’s Improved Rankings in CRI 2025
In the long-term index from 1995 to 2024, India ranked 9th in the world, improving from the previous ranking of 8th. In the 2025 annual index and it moved to 15th rank from 10th in 2024. These rankings are based on more than 430 extreme events that have claimed over 80,000 lives and economic losses of around $170 billion in the past three decades. This shift signifies better early warning systems, disaster preparedness and climate adaptation.
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Major Climatic Disasters Affecting India
India has suffered through numerous catastrophic events over recent decades:
- Cyclone Hudhud in 2014 and Cyclone Amphan of 2020 suffered severe damage.
- The 2013 Uttarakhand floods caused immense loss to human life and economy.
- Health and agriculture were affected by extreme heatwaves in 1998, 2002, 2003 and 2015.
- Events such as these highlight the critical need for resilient infrastructure and proactive disaster management.
What are Government Initiatives to Enhance Climate Resilience in India
Various steps have helped India improve its CRI ranking:
- National Action Plan on Climate Change focuses on mitigating strategies for sustainable development.
- The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure works on infrastructure resilience both domestically and internationally.
- Preparedness is enhanced with strengthened early warning system, emergency response mechanisms and recovery plans.
Countries Most Affected by Climate Events Globally
Globally about 40% of the population lives in the 11 countries most affected by climate disasters, including India and China. Long-term vulnerability is highest in Dominica, Myanmar and Honduras, while major annual impacts were reported for countries like St. Vincent and Grenadines, Grenada and Chad in 2024. Even industrialized countries like the US, France and Italy are facing significant risks, proving that no nation is immune.
What are Challenges for India
Despite advancements, India experiences recurrent climate shocks that make recoveries and sustainable growth elusive. The losses continue to be huge, necessitating increased investment in green infrastructure, emissions reduction and the protection of vulnerable communities.
How India Improved Its Ranking in CRI 2025
India’s better standing reflects combined efforts in early warning systems, resilience in infrastructure, policy execution and climate adaptation. The road ahead is all about sustained innovation, investment and cooperation on the international front.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, based on publicly available reports and expert analyses on climate risk and policy.
