New Delhi: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma underscored the urgent need for climate justice and equity in his address at the Climate Investments Coalition for the Global South in New Delhi on Thursday. He highlighted the disparity where nations with minimal carbon footprints bear the heaviest consequences of climate change, making it not just an environmental issue but a matter of fairness and survival.
Sangma detailed Meghalaya’s proactive approach to combating climate change, emphasising the fusion of traditional conservation wisdom with modern sustainability initiatives. He praised local communities for their deep-rooted environmental stewardship and their role in preserving the region’s natural resources through indigenous knowledge systems.
Addressing the impact of erratic monsoons and extreme weather, he pointed out the threats to agriculture and livelihoods, both globally and within Meghalaya. He stressed that global climate policies must be aligned with the realities of the Global South to ensure sustainable economic growth.
CM Sangma highlights ‘Green Meghalaya’ as model for community-driven conservation
Meghalaya’s “Green Meghalaya” initiative was highlighted as a model for community-driven conservation. The program focuses on forest protection, water source rejuvenation, and catchment area conservation. Additionally, the state is investing in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate-resilient infrastructure to bolster environmental sustainability.
The Chief Minister called for greater cooperation among northeastern states, recognising their shared vulnerability to climate-related disasters. He noted that extreme weather in one state can trigger cascading effects across the region, reinforcing the need for joint mitigation strategies and shared resources.
Knowledge exchange & resource sharing for more effective climate adaptation
He also advocated for stronger ties with South and Southeast Asian nations through platforms like BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation). Such alliances, he said, could facilitate knowledge exchange and resource sharing for more effective climate adaptation.
Sangma further highlighted the growing agricultural crisis in Meghalaya, specifically the bud rot disease affecting areca nut plantations in the Garo Hills and Western Khasi Hills. He called for sustainable farming solutions and climate-resilient agricultural systems to safeguard local economies.
Summit organised by Meghalaya government & National Law University
The summit, organised by the Meghalaya government in collaboration with the National Law University, served as a crucial platform for mobilising climate finance, accelerating green investments, and strengthening South-South cooperation. Meghalaya’s sustainable development model was showcased to inspire similar initiatives across the Global South.
In closing, Sangma reinforced the interconnected nature of climate change, emphasizing that it is not just an ecological battle but a fight for economic stability, social equity, and global cooperation.
