Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025, Key Highlights and India’s Rank

India has been ranked 6th in the Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025, which evaluates the impact of extreme weather events over the past three decades (1993-2022). The index highlights that India has faced over 400 extreme weather events, resulting in economic losses of USD 180 billion and causing at least 80,000 fatalities.

About the Climate Risk Index (CRI)

• Published by: Germanwatch, an independent environmental, development, and human rights organization based in Bonn and Berlin, Germany.
• First Published: 2006.
• Purpose:
  • It is a backwards-looking index, ranking countries based on the human and economic toll of extreme weather.
  • The most affected country is ranked highest in terms of vulnerability and damage.

India’s Rank in CRI 2025

• India’s Rank: 6th most affected country (1993-2022).
• Total Extreme Weather Events: 400+ in the last three decades.
• Economic Losses: USD 180 billion.
• Fatalities: At least 80,000.

Countries Ahead of India

1. Dominica
2. China
3. Honduras
4. Myanmar
5. Italy

India’s Climate Challenges

• Recurring Disasters: India faces cyclones, floods, droughts, and heatwaves due to its diverse geography.
• Impact on Agriculture: Crop failures, water shortages, and soil degradation significantly affect food security.
• Urban Vulnerability: Rising sea levels and erratic rainfall threaten major cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.
• Policy Measures: India is focusing on climate resilience, green energy transitions, and disaster management to combat climate risks.

Conclusion

The CRI 2025 ranking underscores the urgent need for climate adaptation and mitigation strategies in India. With increasing economic losses and fatalities, India must strengthen disaster preparedness, invest in resilient infrastructure, and accelerate renewable energy adoption to minimize climate risks in the future.

Sharing is caring!