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Q. Discuss the effectiveness of India’s climate change policies in meeting its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. (150 words)
21 May, 2025 GS Paper 3 Bio-diversity & EnvironmentApproach
- Introduce India’s Paris Agreement commitments and NDC targets
- Outline India’s progress and major policies and initiatives aligned with NDCs
- Conclude suitably.
Introduction
India’s NDCs under the Paris Agreement represent its commitment to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. India has pledged to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030 (from 2005 levels), achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2070, expand non-fossil fuel energy capacity to 500 GW by 2030, and create an additional carbon sink of 2.5-3 billion tonnes CO2 equivalent through afforestation (India’s updated NDC, 2022).Body
India’s Progress towards NDCs
- Renewable Energy Expansion: The renewable energy sector has witnessed rapid expansion, and its renewable energy capacity reached 220.10 GW (March 2025), up from 198.75 GW last year, marking steady progress toward the 500 GW non-fossil fuel target under the ‘Panchamrit’ goals.
- This rapid scale-up is instrumental in meeting the target of 50% renewables in electricity generation.
- Emission Intensity Reduction: India has already reduced its emissions intensity by approximately 29% between 2005 and 2020, ahead of its 2030 target of 33-35%.
- India, with per capita emissions far lower than developed countries, emphasizes the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities”, focusing on poverty alleviation alongside emission reduction.
- Forest Cover: India aims to increase forest and tree cover to 33% of its geographical area, thereby enhancing carbon sequestration capacity.
- Active afforestation and conservation programs contribute to the projected 2.5–3 billion tonnes CO₂ equivalent carbon sink.
- Climate Adaptation Strategies: Climate adaptation strategies focus on agriculture, water resources, health, and coastal zone management to build resilience against climate impacts.
India’s Efforts Aligned with NDCs
Policy/Initiative Focus Area National Action Plan on Climate Change (2008) Eight missions covering solar energy, energy efficiency, sustainable habitats, water, Himalayas, green India, sustainable agriculture, and climate knowledge. National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC) Supports vulnerable regions in adapting to climate impacts. Mission LiFE Mobilizes 1 billion Indians for environment-friendly governance in 80% of villages and urban bodies by 2028. State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs) Customized climate action plans tailored to state-specific challenges. PAT Scheme & UJALA Program Promotes energy efficiency via market mechanisms and widespread LED adoption. FAME-II Scheme Supports electric vehicle adoption targeting 30% EV share in new sales by 2030. Green India Mission Increased forest cover to 24.56%, enhancing carbon sinks and ecological balance. Conclusion
India’s climate change policies demonstrate substantial progress toward meeting its NDCs under the Paris Agreement. However, challenges related to development priorities, technology access, energy poverty, and governance must be addressed to sustain and accelerate this progress. Strengthening adaptation, enhancing public engagement, and deepening international cooperation will be critical for India’s climate resilience and sustainable development.
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