India urges developed nations to lead climate action amid Nepal's compensation push

India has reiterated its longstanding position on climate change in response to Nepal's demand for compensation from major greenhouse gas emitters. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday that climate change is a common challenge and that action must follow the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said developed countries, historically responsible for a large share of global emissions, must take the lead in reducing them and support developing nations through finance and technology transfers. The remarks came after Nepal's Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal called for climate-related compensation from countries including India, China, and the United States.

Khanal had argued that assistance to climate-vulnerable nations is a matter of legal and moral liability, not charity. He cited United Nations data indicating that the three countries together account for 45 to 48 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. India, the world's third-largest emitter, contributes seven to eight percent of global emissions.

Jaiswal also addressed the devastating flash floods in Nepal, which struck the Nepal-Tibet border region on August 26 following a glacier collapse. The disaster has killed 1,259 people, with nearly 5,000 still missing. Floodwaters and debris swept through the Lhende Khola, Bhotekoshi, and Trishuli river valleys after ice and rock collapsed near Langtang National Park.

India has extended support to Nepal in the wake of the tragedy. "As a close friend and partner, India responded promptly and will continue to support the reconstruction and recovery efforts in the country," Jaiswal said. Nepal's Prime Minister Balen Shah has thanked India and China for their swift assistance in rescue and relief operations.