India’s science academy backs G20 academies’ statement on technology for disaster readiness

The Indian National Science Academy (INSA) has endorsed a joint statement by the science academies of the G20 countries urging governments to use advanced technologies to prepare for and respond to natural disasters.

The Joint S20 Statement was released on 10 November 2026 under the lead of the US National Academy of Sciences, as part of the Science20 (S20) process. It will be presented to the G20 before its summit in Miami, Florida, in December 2026.

What it says

The statement says rain, earthquakes, droughts, wildfires and extreme heat and cold increasingly threaten people, ecosystems and economies. It points to Earth observation, remote sensing, early warning systems, digital twins, drones and artificial intelligence as tools that can improve decisions and readiness.

It adds that these tools only work if gaps in data, infrastructure, technical capacity and institutional coordination are closed, and if access is equitable. Technology, it says, should "enhance, rather than replace, human expertise".

Five areas for action

1. Strengthening data collection and understanding of risk
2. Safe, secure and equitable access to data and technology
3. Building local skills and designing solutions for local contexts
4. Strengthening human decision-making and governance
5. Advancing international and cross-sector collaboration

What INSA will do

INSA said it will bring the recommendations to national stakeholders and help connect experts, research institutions and government agencies. It expects to continue the S20 engagement under the Royal Society's leadership in 2027.

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Source: official release by the Ministry of Science & Technology, issued through the Press Information Bureau, Government of India (12 NOV 2026 12:58PM by PIB Delhi). Read the full official text: INSA endorses G20 Science Academies’ Joint Statement, reaffirming commitment to science-led solutions to global challenges.