Gulbarga University alumni highlight climate change impact on women

Gulbarga University alumni discuss the severe impact of climate change on women, emphasizing gender inequality and empowerment strategies.

Seven alumni of the Zoology Department of Gulbarga University gathered in the campus on March 8 morning for a discussion on ‘Climate Change and How It Is Affecting Women’, as part of a special event to mark International Women’s Day.

Speaking at the event, K. S. Aishwarya, Lecturer in Zoology, highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on women. She noted that gender inequality persists globally, with women owning far less wealth than men and remaining disproportionately represented among the poor. “Climate change, coupled with longstanding societal expectations, leaves women particularly vulnerable,” she said.

She emphasised that climate change affects women not only economically but also in terms of health. “Women are more susceptible to health issues during disasters such as droughts or heatwaves,” she said.

She urged women to take proactive steps to safeguard themselves, including prioritising their health, securing health insurance, building an emergency fund, and creating supportive communities. “Stay united. Raise your voice for women’s rights and ensure that it is heard,” she added.

Dr. Nandini Vithalrao, Shreedevi Bhandarimath, Laxmi Poojari, Dr. Anita Harwal, Karuna Ingin, and Ashwini Rathod were the others who participated in discussions on empowering women to reconnect with nature and strengthen resilience in the face of climate challenges.