President Droupadi Murmu Emphasizes Traditional Knowledge and Community Participation to Combat Climate Change
President Droupadi Murmu addressed an international conference in New Delhi, stating that traditional knowledge and community involvement are essential to tackle climate change. She praised the Mission LiFE initiative and noted that developing nations must balance their economic aspirations with climate goals.
President of India Droupadi Murmu addressed the closing session of an international conference on 'The Future of Environment and Climate Change' in New Delhi on September 20, 2026. Organized by the National Green Tribunal, the event focused on the critical challenges posed by climate change to human existence.
In her address, the President highlighted that issues such as loss of biodiversity, water scarcity, and land degradation are deeply linked to climate change. She expressed concern over the severe impact these changes are having on food security, health, and livelihoods.
President Murmu suggested that a well-structured framework is necessary to address this complex challenge. She stated that this should involve not only governments but also the communities most affected by climate change. She called for special sensitivity toward the needs of rural and forest-dwelling societies, small farmers, and women.
Emphasizing the importance of traditional knowledge systems, the President noted that the experiences of local communities play a vital role in enhancing climate adaptation capacity. She advocated for adopting people-centric and community-based adaptation methods.
Regarding afforestation, the President remarked that the true goal should not just be planting trees but restoring healthy and self-sustaining ecosystems. She described sustainable afforestation as essential for nurturing biodiversity.
In the context of developing nations, the President stated that they must choose a path that maintains the pace of development while simultaneously increasing resilience to climate change. She added that climate commitments should align with economic aspirations and technical feasibility.
President Murmu praised India's 'Mission LiFE' initiative, noting that it has made meaningful contributions toward improving ecosystems through public participation. She also highlighted the significant role of youth in raising environmental awareness.
Concluding her address, the President commended the efforts of the National Green Tribunal and expressed hope that the discussions held during the conference would pave the way for building an inclusive and climate-resilient society.