UNICEF: 392 million Indian children living with extreme heat
According to a new UNICEF report, 392 million children in India, about 92% of all children, are living with extreme heat. Out of these, 89 million are exposed to heatwaves.
With heatwaves getting more frequent and intense, children's health, learning, and even survival are at risk.
Heat action plans miss children's needs
UNICEF points out that while India has Heat Action Plans, they often miss out on what children really need.
The report suggests bringing schools and anganwadis (childcare centers) into the plans, including nighttime heat, and mapping out which districts are most at risk to help protect children better.
India among region's highest climate hazards
India's climate hazard score is one of the highest in the region, just behind Pakistan and Bangladesh, with extreme heat topping the list.
Globally, 1.1 billion children are exposed to at least three overlapping climate hazards.
UNICEF is urging countries to cut emissions and shift toward clean energy for a safer future for all children.