India is among the most vulnerable countries that are facing the impact of climate change. Escalating climate change indicators such as increase in global temperature and their worsening impacts on health warrant a system for prevention and mitigation of climate-related illnesses rooted in environmental friendly practices.

Climate Change is expected to increase the heatwave frequency (HWF) and heatwave duration (HWD) in India. Heatwaves increase the incidences of illness and death, particularly among the vulnerable population groups that include older people, people with pre-existing medical conditions and people with disabilities. Vulnerable population groups also include those in working conditions that expose them to additional heat stress such as construction workers and industrial labourers.

The National Action Plan on Heat Related Illnesses highlights the ways to manage heat-related illnesses (HRI) to alleviate the impact of climate change. In addition to talking about the prevention and management of heat-related illnesses, the action plan also includes a chapter on heat-related illnesses in paediatric age groups, hospital preparedness plan and standard operating procedures and guidelines for investigation of suspected HRI deaths.