Jharkhand’s tribal regions find themselves increasingly grappling with the complex challenges brought on by climate change, evident in its pronounced impacts witnessed over recent years. The disruption of traditional weather patterns, characterised by erratic rainfall, has wreaked havoc on agriculture and has resulted in delayed crops and parched fields. The transformation of once fertile lands into dry and cracked terrains, with desolate paddy fields echoes the struggle. In the face of the multifaceted and deeply rooted challenges posed by climate change to communities in Jharkhand, a call to action becomes imperative. Fortunately, low-hanging solutions can be implemented to mitigate these concerns.

Communities should receive tailored psychosocial support as part of climate-focused interventions. This includes counselling to address the emotional and psychological impact of climate-related stressors, along with equipping them with skills and strategies to navigate future challenges. Mental health interventions are crucial for building active and adaptive coping mechanisms to manage climate-induced stressors effectively.