Inferno Report

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The complex interaction of gender dynamics, societal norms, and climate change intensifies the

vulnerability of women to heat waves, particularly in India. According to the Food and Agriculture

Organization’s report, Unjust Climate, each year in low and middle-income countries (LMICs), female

heads of households in rural areas suffer significantly greater financial losses than men. On average,

female-headed households lose 8 percent more of their income due to heat stress.

Another report by the United Nations Human Rights (UNHCR), Right to Water, women can spend

up to four hours daily on water-related tasks, heightening health risks, particularly from waterborne

diseases. Additionally, cultural norms frequently downplay women's health concerns, compounding

their susceptibility to heat-related illnesses. Furthermore, limited decision-making authority in

household and community water management further restricts women's access to crucial resources

needed to cope with heat and water shortages. Pregnant and elderly women face elevated risks from

heat stress, which can lead to complications such as preterm labor, heightened health conditions, and

increased rates of stillbirths.

Economic opportunities for women, particularly in agriculture and informal sectors, are significantly

affected by heatwaves and droughts. According to the NITI Aayog, approximately 80 percent of rural

women in India are employed in agriculture, and heatwaves coupled with water scarcity jeopardize

their ability to engage in farming, particularly tasks such as irrigation. The reduced agricultural yields

and biodiversity loss further strain women who rely on subsistence farming or natural resources for

their livelihoods.

Around 54 percent of women in India live indoors, which might seem like a potential shelter from

extreme heat. However, staying indoors can increase vulnerability because of inadequate ventilation

and cooling systems. Research also indicates that higher indoor temperatures decrease women's ability

to work effectively, leading to potential income losses of up to 30 percent for those engaged in home-

based occupations in India. Women already earn an average of 20 percent less than men, and this

disparity is exacerbated during heatwaves.

Addressing these challenges requires an approach that examines gender sensitivity in policy and

planning. It is crucial to ensure women's involvement in decisions concerning community water

management and provide them with resources for mitigating heat stress. Health services tailored to

meet the specific needs of women during such events are essential. Effective heat action plans and

localized water management strategies are crucial at the state, city, and village levels. However,

existing Heat Action Plans (HAPs) in India often fail to notice local contexts and to competently

address vulnerable populations.

The gender-specific impacts of heat waves and water scarcity in India highlight the pressing need for

comprehensive strategies that prioritize the well-being and empowerment of women and girls.

Addressing these challenges necessitates a multifaceted approach, integrating gender perspectives into

every aspect of climate resilience planning and implementation.

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Navigating Gendered

Vulnerabilities

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