Climate Migration Driven by Governance Failures, Not Just Climate Stress
Why in News
A study on climate-induced migration in rural India highlights that climate change acts as a threat multiplier, exacerbating existing socio-economic vulnerabilities and governance weaknesses, rather than being a direct cause of migration.
Background
This study reframes climate migration as a governance challenge, emphasizing the need for robust institutional support, infrastructure, and livelihood diversification to build adaptive capacity in vulnerable regions, including UP's climate-sensitive areas.
Key Figure
• Study: Based on secondary data analysis of rural India, specifically Meenakshipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Key Facts
- 1Climate Migration: Indirectly caused by climate change, acting as a 'threat multiplier' on existing vulnerabilities.
- 2Key Drivers of Migration (Study): Weak governance, poor infrastructure, limited livelihood alternatives, social marginalisation.
- 3Case Study Location: Meenakshipuram village, Tamil Nadu — abandoned due to declining rainfall, droughts, water shortage.
- 4Adaptive Capacity: Decision to migrate hinges on local adaptive capacity (infrastructure, policy support).
- 5DPSP Article 38: State to secure a social order for the promotion of welfare of the people, including minimizing inequalities.
- 6DPSP Article 39: State to direct policy towards securing adequate means of livelihood for all citizens.
Exam Angle
Climate change acts as a threat multiplier, necessitating integrated governance strategies that address socio-economic vulnerabilities and enhance adaptive capacity to manage internal displacement and migration effectively.
PYQ Connection
MAINS_ANALYTICAL: Climate change impact on migration and livelihoods; governance role
Map Points