UK: PM Modi launches India-led infra push IRIS to help small island nations amid climate crisis

India launched an ambitious initiative for developing the infrastructure of small island nations. PM Modi was joined by his British counterpart Boris Johnson on second day of COP26 climate summit. The launch event was also attended by Australian PM Scott Morrison, UN Secy-Gen Antonio Guterres. “Launch of 'Infrastructure for Resilient Island States' gives a new hope, a new confidence. Last few decades have proved that no one is untouched by the wrath of climate change. Whether they are developed countries or countries rich in natural resources, this is a big threat. The Small Island Developing States or SIDS face the biggest threat from climate change. It is a matter of life and death for the SIDS, it is a challenge to their existence. Disasters caused by climate change can literally take the form of catastrophe for them. It is a major challenge not only for security of their lives, but also for their economies. Such countries are dependent on tourism but people are scared of visiting due to natural calamities. SIDS countries have lived in harmony with nature, they know how to adapt to natural cycles. But due to selfish behaviour of past decades, the unnatural form of nature has come to fore. CDRI or IRIS is part of a very sensitive responsibility of human welfare. It is the collective responsibility of all of us towards mankind,” the Prime Minister said. “India has made special arrangements for cooperation with Pacific islands, Caricom countries. ISRO will build a special data window for them to provide timely information about cyclones, etc. Through IRIS, it will be easy for SIDS to mobilise technology, finance necessary information faster. Promotion of quality infrastructure in Small Island States will benefit both lives & livelihoods. India will fully support this new project & will work closely with CDRI, other partner countries,” he added.