Shifting Boundaries: Climate Change and Vector-Borne Diseases

October 2025

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – India Research Center recently launched a new webinar series, “Climate Change and Health: Science, Policy and Public Health in Action,” aimed at strengthening public health responses in India.

The inaugural webinar “Shifting Boundaries: Climate Change and Vector-Borne Diseases”, focused on the link between climate change and vector-borne diseases in India. Leading global and national experts shared insights on the existing research, public health initiatives, and strategic measures necessary to address this public health challenge.

The discussion began with opening remarks by Dr. Swati Bakshi, Deputy Director, Harvard Chan India Research Center, followed by a panel discussion featuring esteemed experts and thought leaders in the field:

• Dr. Daniel Neafsey, Associate Professor, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
• Dr. Mrinalini Darswal, IAS, Special Resident Commissioner, Odisha Bhawan, Government of Odisha
• Dr. Neelima Mishra, Director, National Institute of Biologicals (NIB), Scientist G, ICMR-NIMR, New Delhi
• Dr. Abhiyant Tiwari, Lead – Health & Climate Resilience, NRDC India

The panel was moderated by Dr. Gaurab Basu, Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Health at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

The conversation focused on the rising burden of vector-borne diseases in India, highlighting how climate change is altering their transmission patterns. The speakers discussed the role of policy frameworks and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence in addressing these challenges. The session emphasized the need for integrated adaptation measures and multi-sectoral strategies to build resilient, evidence-based public health responses to climate-driven disease risks.