Fighting rising temperatures, Indian youths representing the communities vulnerable to the disastrous changing climate have demanded urgent action at the COP29, urging world leaders to prioritise the unique needs of children and youth in policy.
Rising temperatures and unchecked development have led to landslides and impacted our way of life, said 23-year-old Manisha Arya, a youth delegate from India's Himalayan region, as she voiced the concerns of millions at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29).
Manisha is one of 20 young South Asian leaders representing the urgent demands of youth in the fight against climate change.
Alongside her is Kartik Verma, a 19-year-old environmental advocate from a farming community in rural India.
Through his Knowledge for Nature initiative, Kartik said he has reached over 5,000 children and youth to raise awareness about the environmental challenges faced by their communities.
I was lucky to be heard, but I am here at COP29 for those