Jitendra Singh on Monday warned that rising temperatures are no longer just an environmental issue but a growing public health threat, linked to both communicable and non-communicable diseases.
Speaking at the Global Heat and Cooling Forum organised by the Natural Resources Defense Council in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology and the National Disaster Management Authority, Singh said heat stress is already worsening conditions ranging from dengue to cardiovascular illnesses.
“India today is dealing with both tropical diseases and lifestyle-related non-communicable diseases at the same time,” he said, underlining the dual burden on the healthcare system.
The minister noted that climate change-driven heat is a global challenge, but India faces a particularly complex scenario due to its diverse geography. Different regions experience extremes—from intense heatwaves to cold conditions—requiring tailored responses rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
He stressed that climate action must now be treated as a public health priority, given the increasing impact of rising temperatures on disease patterns and overall well-being.
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