“India is the land of Mahatma Gandhi, whose vision for sustainable development inspires us greatly. We have shown what it is to realise key principles like Green Future and Net Zero.” ~ Shri Narendra Modi
Climate Action: A Global Necessity
Climate change remains one of humanity’s most pressing challenges. Rising temperatures and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions threaten life on Earth, urging global collective action. Under the Paris Agreement, nations committed to Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to reduce emissions and mitigate climate risks. India has been a proactive contributor to this effort, pledging net-zero emissions by 2070 during the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) in 2021.
In a significant achievement, India’s 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) revealed a remarkable 7.93% reduction in GHG emissions in 2020 compared to 2019. This milestone underscores India’s steadfast commitment to a sustainable and climate-resilient future.
India’s Climate Action under UNFCCC
Since its adoption in 1994, the UNFCCC has spearheaded global efforts to stabilize GHG concentrations and promote long-term climate finance. The Paris Agreement, adopted during COP21 in 2015, set ambitious goals to limit the global temperature rise to well below 2°C, with an aspirational target of 1.5°C.
India’s active participation includes submitting Biennial Update Reports (BURs) every two years, detailing its GHG inventories, mitigation actions, and support received. The latest report showcases significant strides in emission reductions, reflecting India’s resolve to align economic development with environmental sustainability.
Key Achievements: A 7.93% Reduction in GHG Emissions
India’s BUR-4 revealed a 7.93% decline in total GHG emissions in 2020 compared to 2019. Excluding Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry (LULUCF), the emissions totaled 2,959 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent (CO2e). Including LULUCF, the net emissions were 2,437 million tonnes of CO2e.
- Energy Sector Contribution: Accounting for 75.66% of emissions, the energy sector remains a significant focus of India’s mitigation efforts.
- Carbon Sequestration: LULUCF activities, including forest and vegetation management, sequestered 522 million tonnes of CO2, reducing 22% of total emissions.
These achievements underline India’s commitment to equity and the principles of the Paris Agreement, balancing developmental needs with climate responsibilities.
A Roadmap to Low-Carbon Development
Despite contributing only 4% of global cumulative GHG emissions between 1850 and 2019, India remains disproportionately vulnerable to climate change due to its geographical diversity and large population.
India’s Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS) emphasize seven strategic transitions:
- Low-carbon electricity systems aligned with developmental needs.
- Integrated, efficient, inclusive low-carbon transport systems.
- Sustainable urbanization through energy-efficient buildings and adaptive designs.
- Decoupling economic growth from emissions with innovative industrial systems.
- CO2 removal technologies and related engineering solutions.
- Enhanced forest and vegetation cover for ecological balance.
- Financial frameworks to support the transition to a net-zero future by 2070.
Innovative Initiatives for Carbon Neutrality
- Forest Conservation and Afforestation
- Compensatory Afforestation: Nationwide efforts to restore degraded lands.
- Green Credit Program: Promoting tree plantations on degraded lands.
- Tree Plantation Drives: Campaigns like “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” encourage citizen participation.
- Urban Climate Adaptation
- Integration of adaptation measures in urban planning through initiatives like Smart Cities Mission and AMRUT.
- Energy-efficient housing under schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (PMAY).
- Air Pollution Control
- The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) targets air quality improvement in 131 cities.
- Measures include ethanol blending, BS-VI fuel norms, and adoption of cleaner fuels.
- Coastal Ecosystem Conservation
- Programs like MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats) focus on mangrove restoration across 9 coastal states and 4 UTs.
- Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plans (ICZMP) enhance climate resilience in vulnerable areas.
Regulatory Frameworks
- Policies under the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notifications ensure the protection of critical ecosystems like mangroves and coral reefs.
Innovative Practices: Mahakumbh 2025
India’s cultural events are also being leveraged for climate action. At Mahakumbh 2025, the Miyawaki technique was used to create dense green forests, showcasing a fusion of spiritual practices with environmental responsibility.
India’s 7.93% reduction in GHG emissions is a testament to its commitment to sustainable development and global climate goals. With a focus on low-carbon growth and innovative solutions, India is paving the way for a climate-resilient future. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering resolve, India continues to lead by example, ensuring balanced growth while safeguarding the environment for generations to come.
