Jammu and Kashmir MLA Tarigami Calls for Dedicated Climate Budget, Cites Kerala Model

Jammu: Adopting a framework similar to Kerala’s to address growing environmental risks, senior CPIM leader and Kulgam MLA Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami on Friday, the 13th, called for a dedicated climate budget for Jammu and Kashmir.

During the Assembly discussion on grants for the Forest & Ecology and Jal Shakti departments, Tarigami noted that the current budget makes no mention of climate change, despite its increasing impact on the region.

“This region is more affected by adverse climatic conditions than others,” he said, emphasising that Jammu and Kashmir’s development is closely tied to its climate. He added that climate change is both an environmental and developmental challenge, as extreme weather events damage homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods.

He described climate change as a global concern and stressed that sustainable development cannot be achieved without policy planning and targeted investment to address climate-related challenges. Citing Kerala’s climate budgeting framework as a model for focused mitigation, adaptation, and risk management, he said he had submitted a detailed note to the Chief Minister recommending a similar mechanism for Jammu and Kashmir.

Tarigami warned that the absence of a climate framework imposes a recurring financial burden on the exchequer due to repeated spending on relief and reconstruction. He urged the government to prioritise climate change and allocate dedicated resources for mitigation and adaptation.

On forest conservation, he highlighted forests’ importance for ecological balance and human survival, cautioning against encroachments even under the pretext of security. Regarding the Jal Shakti sector, he emphasised protecting rivers and streams from encroachment, warning that unchecked interventions could increase disaster risk.

He concluded by calling for a comprehensive, climate-sensitive governance approach to safeguard the region’s ecology, infrastructure, and long-term development.