NABARD in partnership with GIZ India and Times Group hosted a high-level dialogue titled "Climate Changemakers: Empowering Change, Enabling Resilience" with C-suite executives on August 29, 2024, at NABARD Head Office, Mumbai. The event orchestrated a pivotal dialogue by Shri Shaji K V, Chairman along with Shri G S Rawat, DMD, with more than 30 C-Suite Executives from a wide spectrum of industries /sectors to discuss strategies for climate adaptation and sustainable development in India.

The event, which was organised as part of the Indo-German project ‘Climate Adaptation, Resilience and Climate Finance in Rural India (CAFRI-II)’, was moderated by Shri Vineet Chhattree, Managing Director, Svatantra Microfin along with officials from GIZ India and DCAS, NABARD HO.

Chairman highlighted the significance of the digital initiatives like Agri Stack and Unified Lending Interface, frameworks like green taxonomy, collaborations and partnerships for a green and climate resilient ecosystem. He indicated NABARD’s efforts to enhance the capabilities of rural financial institutions through PACS computerisation, shared services enterprise and other initiatives.

On the occasion, DMD highlighted the impact of climate change on agriculture and rural sector, and underscored importance of water management and climate-resilient livelihood. He observed that the private sector has a crucial role to play in bringing resources and technology to the table, and that robust research and development in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies are indispensable. Further, proactive engagement with state governments on the State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCC) is essential in building a climate-resilient future for India's agriculture and rural communities.

The tête-à-tête between Chairman and Shri Chhattree and Chairman interaction with the C-suite executives offered valuable insights on integrating climate resilience into business operations. Chairman call for innovative approaches and NABARD's role in promoting sustainable development highlighted the need for proactive measures and market-driven solutions.

The dialogue successfully fostered an environment for cross-sectoral partnerships between government, development agencies, and industry leaders, essential for effective climate action. The presence and active participation of C-Suite executives underscored the growing recognition of climate resilience as a core business strategy.