Sectoral Impacts of El Niño and Climate Change on India's Industri-al Economy: A Case Study on Sustainable Economic Resilience

Abstract

This study examines the implications of El Niño on the Indian industrial economy in the context of climate change, with a focus on sectoral risks, economic disruptions, and emerging growth opportunities. The study adopts a qualitative and analytical approach using historical El Niño trends, secondary economic data, sec-toral performance analysis, and climate-related industrial indicators to evaluate the impact on major indus-tries in India. The findings indicate that El Niño negatively affects agriculture, commodity supply chains, and food inflation due to weak monsoon conditions and rising temperatures. However, industries related to cool-ing appliances, irrigation and water technologies, renewable energy backup systems, healthcare, and consum-er durables show strong growth potential during El Niño years. Climate change is further accelerating the demand for climate-resilient infrastructure and adaptive industrial strategies. This study provides an integrat-ed perspective linking climate phenomena with industrial economics in India. It highlights how El Niño acts not only as an environmental risk but also as a catalyst for industrial transformation, investment opportuni-ties, and climate-resilient economic development.