“There is a need for a joint study on the glaciers in the regions. The Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology and its Chinese counterpart, the Cold and Arid Regions Environmental and Engineering Research, have been roped in to conduct the research,” Mr. Ramesh said.

The decision was taken last week during his visit to Beijing, the Minister said on the sidelines of a function after releasing a report, the Security Implication of Climate Change for India, prepared by the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

Mr. Ramesh said it was mind-boggling to know the way China has invested heavily — both monetary and resource wise — to study glaciology in the Himalayan region in the past ten years.

“We are just beginning. A joint research will be better for in-depth findings.” he said. Besides seeking joint research with the neighbouring countries, he emphasised on strengthening scientific capabilities of the institutions to combat the climate change threat.