New Delhi: India Friday called on the developed world to “take the lead” in reducing emissions and share technologies with the developing world in light of the flood in Nepal that has left over a 1,000 people dead and more than 5,000 missing.
“India has consistently maintained that climate change is a common challenge. India believes in common but differentiated responsibilities. Developed countries who are historically responsible for emissions must take the lead for meeting this challenge,” Randhir Jaiswal, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs said at a regular press briefing.
Jaiswal added: “The developed countries should also focus on sharing of technologies with developing countries.”
The spokesperson’s remarks come after Nepal’s foreign minister said India, US and China should compensate Nepal for global warming which is believed to have caused the flash flood.
Shishir Khanal, the Nepalese Foreign Minister, clarified his remarks Friday that he did not call for compensation but shared Kathmandu’s perspective of the impact of global warming on the Himalayan country.
Roughly 275 Indians remain missing after the flood. Jaiswal highlighted that 166 Indians have been rescued so far. The official spokesperson highlighted that 1,907 Indians who were stranded on the Chinese side have since crossed the border into Nepal and there are no Indians now stranded in the Tibet Autonomous province.
Indian rescue efforts in Nepal continue. India has sent at least 95 tonnes of relief material across seven flights. More relief material is being prepared for Nepal.
“In addition, we have sent 54 personnel to support relief efforts in Nepal, 30 tunnel rescue personnel, 19 forensic personnel and 5 medical workers. They are deployed on the ground in cooperation with the government of Nepal,” said Jaiswal.
Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah thanked the efforts of foreign governments including India in aiding Kathmandu in relief efforts.
(Edited by Viny Mishra)