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Explained: India declares heatwaves a natural calamity- what changes now?

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India’s decision to formally recognise heatwaves as a notified natural calamity marks a significant shift in how the country responds to extreme heat.

The move, announced on August 4, allows states to access dedicated disaster funds for heatwave preparedness and response. Until now, states could use only a limited share of disaster funds for heatwave-related measures. The change is expected to provide greater financial support for interventions such as improving thermal comfort in public spaces and protecting vulnerable communities.

Experts say the impact of extreme heat goes far beyond health. Outdoor and informal workers, including those in agriculture and construction, face heat stress that can reduce productivity and affect household incomes.

Doctors also point to the link between extreme heat, poverty and health. Financial assistance and better rehabilitation measures could help vulnerable families cope with the economic impact of heat-related illness.

Experts say the notification could also improve coordination between national and state-level heat action plans. They point to the COVID-19 response as an example of how recognising a crisis within the disaster framework can bring greater coordination and resources.

With temperatures rising and heatwaves becoming more persistent, the challenge now is to ensure that the new funding translates into effective, locally driven action.

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