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Youth Unite for Sunderbans Climate Action
15 Feb
Summary
- Students proposed saline-tolerant crops to combat rising soil salinity.
- Youth urged urban solidarity with vulnerable island communities.
- Government initiatives include masterplans and speedboat ambulances.
Children and youth from West Bengal gathered for a 'Youth Conclave on Climate Action' to propose solutions for the Sunderbans' climate challenges. Over 700 students from various educational institutions attended the event, which included the screening of the documentary 'Code Red Sunderbans.'
Students shared firsthand experiences of recurring cyclones and tidal surges impacting their lives and livelihoods in the island region. They highlighted how increased soil salinity, due to repeated inundation, has reduced crop yields. One student suggested cultivating saline-tolerant paddy varieties with government support.
In response, West Bengal Disaster Management Minister Javed Khan stated that the state government is preparing a masterplan for islander development and has deployed speedboat ambulances for medical emergencies. UNICEF's West Bengal Chief emphasized the shared responsibility in mitigating climate change and encouraged young people to lead with ideas and action.
