Transformation Journey — ‘How Abhishek’s influential Research linking Climate challenges with Disability Justice impacts Global Policy’

Introduction by the NCPEDP Team

“We’re excited to highlight the important work of our NCPEDP — Javed Abidi fellowship holder, Abhishek Kumar. Focused on climate justice and its intersections with disability, Abhishek is dedicated to creating inclusive solutions for our most pressing environmental challenges.”

“His journey reflects a commitment to ensuring that climate policies and actions consider the needs of people with disabilities, promoting a more equitable and just world for all.” Social Media Post.

“NCPEDP logo, with the Javed Abidi Fellowship positioned on the top left. On the top right, it reads ‘Transformation Journey with Advocate Abhishek Kumar’. Below, it states, ‘How Abhishek’s influential research linking climate challenges with disability justice impacts global policy’, accompanied by a picture of Advocate Abhishek Kumar on the bottom right.”

Abhishek Kumar developed a strong interest in climate change post-graduation and began his career with Mr. Abhay Jain at Zenith Society for Socio-Legal Empowerment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he closely monitored national and international climate change developments. A fellowship workshop introduced him to disability movement and advocacy, revealing a lack of focus on climate change’s impact on persons with disabilities.

Abhishek focused on the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities, particularly women and persons with disabilities (PwDs). He conducted desk literature reviews, RTIs, and secondary research on climate change policies. Designing a survey on climate change awareness, he received 50 responses and initiated the “Know Your Concept” campaign online. Collaborating with colleges like Jindal, he conducted sessions to raise awareness about climate change.

Abhishek conducted a survey on the impact of single-use plastic bans on PwDs and documented case studies while writing articles for “The Sangyan”. He continued research on climate change’s impact on PwDs, focusing on heatwaves, employment, and income deprivation. Working with civil society organizations like MUSKAN and associations such as the Conference of State Parties, he used social media campaigns and international days to raise awareness. He also shared recommendations in the Draft National Policy on Disability.

Abhishek branded his work under “The Sangyan” and authored articles on the intersection of climate change and disability. He conducted monthly interviews with PwDs from different climatic zones and a survey on climate change’s impact on menstrual hygiene. Connecting with UNICEF New York, he contributed to discussions on CRC committee’s draft general comment on Climate Change.

Abhishek participated in G20 working groups on Disaster Risk Reduction, Gender Equality, and Disability. He conducted field visits to Ranchi and Lohardaga to collect data on climate change and violence against women with disabilities. Organizing webinars in collaboration with other fellows, he shared insights and findings.

Abhishek provided social media updates on reports like “Earth Beyond Six of Nine Planetary Boundaries” and launched initiatives like “Know Your Concepts” and the ChatGPT series. He participated as a panelist in webinars focusing on Disability and Climate Justice, highlighting his advocacy efforts. He created a three-page report, “A Call for Disability Inclusive Climate Action in India and Globally”, submitted to COP 28, and suggested additions to the National Multidimensional Poverty Index report by NITI Aayog.

Abhishek shared recommendations with the Supreme Court based on the UN Global Climate Litigation Report. Invited by Rotary Club Bangalore, he discussed “Green Skills for Youth Towards a Sustainable Future”. His international recognition included articles co-authored with Harvard Law School and McGill University. Spearheading the “Build Forward Better” campaign, he launched a dedicated channel and received credibility from UNICEF through their platform, Voices of Youth.

Picture Credits: National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) Team