Heat communication has become increasingly important as India experiences more frequent and intense heatwaves. Despite record-breaking temperatures, heat is still widely perceived as a seasonal inconvenience instead of a public health and climate challenge. Stronger narratives can help communities, institutions, and policymakers recognise the risks and respond more effectively.

Framing Solution Narratives for Heat captures insights from a convening held in Bengaluru on 5 June 2026. More than 40 journalists, researchers, policy advocates, communicators, and civil society organisations participated in the discussion. Together, they explored how better heat communication can shape public understanding and support stronger policy responses.

The report identifies several important narrative shifts. It encourages treating heat as a public protection issue rather than an individual burden. It highlights the need for systemic protection for outdoor workers instead of relying only on shade. It also recommends viewing heat as a year-round climate challenge rather than a seasonal event. In addition, it argues that cooling should be recognised as essential public infrastructure instead of a private privilege.

The report also examines which messages resonate with different audiences, including rural communities, journalists, builders, and policymakers. It concludes with the commitments participants made to strengthen heat communication across sectors. This resource supports anyone working to communicate extreme heat more effectively and inspire action that improves public health and climate resilience.