As the world's most populous country, India faces numerous climate challenges. The challenges get multiplied for those residing in metro cities. Currently, newspapers and channels are filled with the adverse consequences and warnings about heatwaves. Depleting water levels during this particular weather is yet another issue we all face. However, keeping aside the challenges during the summers, India is doing its part to meet the climate crisis. One of India's critical approaches is the promotion of renewable energy sources. India has set ambitious targets for renewable energy generation, such as achieving 40% of its total energy capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.
A few general examples are implementing stricter emission standards for vehicles (introduction of BS VI engines), promoting electric vehicles, and adopting cleaner fuel options. India has also prioritised sustainable urban planning and development. This includes the Smart Cities Mission, which aims to develop 100 cities with sustainable infrastructure and efficient transportation and energy systems. Moreover, we have strongly emphasised forest conservation and afforestation initiatives to combat deforestation and preserve the rich biodiversity. Some of the efforts include the Green India Mission and the National Afforestation Programme, which aim to increase forest cover and restore degraded land.
From being part of Have-Nots to transforming into a voice of the global south: India has emerged as a critical player in international climate negotiations. We are actively involved in conferences such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Conference of the Parties to the Paris Agreement. India has advocated for the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, highlighting the need for developed countries to take greater responsibility in reducing emissions and providing financial and technological support to developing countries in the global south and Africa.
Zero defect and zero effect - Strategic role by the corporate houses: The policy encourages companies to strive for zero defects in their products and processes while minimising their environmental impact. In addition, the policy aims for the corporate sector to adopt sustainable practices. Through this policy, the Modi government encourages corporate entities to actively mitigate climate change by implementing green practices and reducing their carbon footprint across their business functions.
Word Leader in Solar Energy: In one of my previous pieces in “The Pioneer”, I strongly argued that issue like the “per-capita carbon emission” is not created by India. However, instead of playing the blame game, India responded positively to it and today, we are one of the global leaders in solar energy. India has set ambitious targets for solar power generation and has implemented policies and incentives to promote the adoption of solar technology. This has helped India reduce its dependency on fossil fuels and contributed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Accountability and responsibility as two sides of the same coin: India has a clear-cut stand. It has been a proponent of the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. It acknowledges that developed countries have historically contributed more to climate change and should take greater responsibility for mitigating its effects.
Efforts are reasonable, but dedicated rigorous approach is needed: (Kaushik & Kumar, 2024) in their recent article have strongly highlighted that transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar and wind can decrease India's carbon footprint and help to achieve net zero by 2070; transitioning into green economy will open new job opportunities in the country; India needs solid energy security to cater such a vast population; and lastly, working towards eradicating the climate issues will improve the health status of the citizen and the country’s overall economy.
The author, a PhD from Santiniketan works as a Manager at Humana People to People India, New Delhi
