The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the ratification of the Headquarters Agreement (HQA) between India and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). The agreement was signed on August 22, 2019, and aims to promote the resilience of infrastructure systems to climate and disaster risks.
The CDRI was launched by PM Modi during the United Nations Climate Action Summit in September 2019. It is a global initiative led by the Government of India and is seen as India’s attempt to obtain a global leadership role in climate change and disaster resilience matters. Since its launch, the CDRI has attracted the membership of thirty-one countries, six international organizations, and two private sector organizations.
The ratification of the HQA will grant the CDRI exemptions, immunities, and privileges as contemplated under Section-3 of the United Nations (Privileges and Immunities) Act, 1947. This will provide the CDRI with an independent and international legal persona, allowing it to carry out its functions more efficiently on an international scale.
The CDRI aims to ensure sustainable development by enhancing the resilience of infrastructure systems to climate and disaster risks. It is a partnership that includes national governments, UN agencies, multilateral development banks, the private sector, and academic and knowledge institutions. By bringing together these stakeholders, the CDRI seeks to promote collaboration and knowledge-sharing to tackle the challenges posed by climate change and disasters.
The ratification of the HQA between India and the CDRI is a significant step towards establishing the CDRI as an internationally recognized organization. This will enable the CDRI to operate independently and effectively in its efforts to enhance the resilience of infrastructure systems worldwide.
India’s commitment to climate change and disaster resilience is evident through its support and financial contributions to the CDRI. The Cabinet approved the setting up of CDRI and its supporting Secretariat in New Delhi, along with a financial support of Rs480 crore over a period of five years. This financial commitment reflects India’s determination to play a leading role in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and disasters.
The ratification of the HQA between India and the CDRI is a testament to India’s commitment to promoting disaster resilience and sustainable development. By granting the CDRI the necessary exemptions, immunities, and privileges, India is ensuring that the CDRI can fulfill its mandate effectively on a global scale.
Through its membership in the CDRI, India will have the opportunity to collaborate with other countries, international organizations, and stakeholders to share best practices, knowledge, and innovative solutions in disaster resilience. This will not only benefit India but also contribute to global efforts to address the impacts of climate change and disasters.
India’s leadership in climate change and disaster resilience matters is further strengthened with the ratification of the HQA. The CDRI provides a platform for India to showcase its expertise and experience in building disaster-resilient infrastructure. It is an opportunity for India to lead by example and inspire other countries to prioritize disaster resilience in their infrastructure development plans.
The ratification of the HQA between India and the CDRI is a significant milestone in India’s efforts to promote disaster resilience and sustainable development. It marks India’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by climate change and disasters and establishing itself as a global leader in this field. With the support of its partners, India can make a meaningful impact in enhancing the resilience of infrastructure systems worldwide.
