Context:
India requires legislation acknowledging climate migrants to ensure their protection and rehabilitation in the face of environmental disruptions. According to the “State of India’s Environment-2022” report, India is the fourth worst-hit country in the world when it comes to climate change-induced migration, with more than three million people forced to leave their homes in 2020-2021.

Overview:

Climate Migrants Bill, 2022:

The Climate Migrants (Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2022, presented as a private member bill, aims to acknowledge climate migrants and ensure their comprehensive rehabilitation.

This bill is pivotal in offering a sustainable resolution to migration induced by climate-related factors in the country.

Reasons for the Bill:

Climate-Induced Migration:

Reports estimate a significant rise in climate-induced internal migration by 2050, potentially displacing millions due to environmental impacts.

India currently hosts around 14 million climate-induced migrants, a number expected to reach 45 million by 2050.

The country’s majority states and Union Territories already face recurring natural disasters, necessitating urgent legislative action.

Bill Highlights:

Comprehensive Coverage:

• It covers sudden disasters like floods and cyclones, as well as gradual environmental changes like droughts, erosion, glacier melting, and desertification.
• Unlike current policies focusing on immediate relief, this bill prioritizes holistic rehabilitation for displaced populations.

Framework and Authorities:

• The bill defines climate migrants and advocates for establishing a dedicated fund for their rehabilitation.
• It proposes an inter-ministerial authority at national and state levels to monitor risks, prevent migration, offer relief, and ensure resettlement and rehabilitation.

Infrastructure and Climate Impact:

Infrastructure Projects:

Large-scale infrastructure, particularly hydel projects along the Brahmaputra, significantly impact downstream regions, contributing to the climate crisis.

While infrastructure development is vital, overbuilding in environmentally sensitive areas like the Northeast requires caution.

Forest Conservation Act Amendment:

The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023, weakens environmental regulations, posing substantial risks to eco-sensitive regions like the Northeast.

The Way Forward:

Rehabilitation Measures:

The proposed Bill advocates for alternative support to climate migrants, including land grants, livestock aid, and access to communal resources like water bodies and forests.

Urgent Need for Legislation:

India lacks a specific law recognizing climate migrants’ rights. A comprehensive legal framework is crucial to guarantee the rights of displaced individuals affected by environmental disruptions.

Mitigating Future Displacements:

To curb further displacements, it’s imperative to implement policies that safeguard communities facing environmental challenges and secure their rights amidst growing climate-induced migration.

Read Also: Draft National Migrant Policy