Understanding India’s Role in the Paris Climate Deal

Understanding India’s Role in the Paris Climate Deal🌍

The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), is a landmark global accord aimed at combating climate change and limiting global warming to well below 2°C, preferably 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels. This legally binding international treaty reflects a unified global commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and foster sustainable development.

India, as one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies, plays a vital role in this global climate effort. Its climate commitments, made under the Paris Agreement, not only reflect its environmental responsibility but also balance its developmental needs and energy demands.

🌱 What is the Paris Agreement?

The Paris Agreement is a global treaty that calls upon all countries to:

• Limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C, with efforts to keep it under 1.5°C

• Achieve a balance between emissions and removals of greenhouse gases in the second half of this century (Net Zero)

• Submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) outlining their emission reduction targets and adaptation strategies

• Strengthen support for climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity building in developing nations

India’s Key Commitments under the Paris Agreement

India submitted its updated NDCs under the agreement, which include the following ambitious targets:

1. Reduction in Emissions Intensity

India has committed to reducing the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030, compared to 2005 levels. This reflects a strong intent to decouple economic growth from carbon emissions.

2. Expansion of Non-Fossil Energy Capacity

India aims to achieve about 50% cumulative electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030. This includes solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear power, boosting its renewable energy transition.

3. Carbon Sink Enhancement

India has pledged to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent through forest and tree cover, supporting both climate action and biodiversity conservation.

4. Net Zero by 2070

At COP26 in Glasgow, India made a bold declaration: it will achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2070. Though this target is two decades beyond the 2050 goal set by many developed nations, it is significant considering India’s development stage and population size.

🔍 Why India’s Role is Crucial

India is the third-largest emitter of CO₂, after China and the US. However, its per capita emissions are far lower than those of developed countries. With a growing economy and large population, India faces the dual challenge of achieving climate goals while ensuring energy security, economic development, and poverty reduction.

India’s approach emphasizes:

• Climate justice

• Sustainable development

• Green technology adoption

• International collaboration

🌐 Global Recognition of India’s Efforts

India’s climate action has been appreciated globally, especially for:

• Its leadership in launching the International Solar Alliance (ISA)

• Large-scale investments in solar and wind energy

• Promotion of electric mobility

• Ambitious afforestation programs and green infrastructure

✅ Conclusion

India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement showcase a thoughtful and ambitious approach to climate change. By combining economic growth with environmental sustainability, India is setting an example for developing nations on how to align development goals with climate responsibility.

As the world races against time to combat global warming, India’s proactive role and climate leadership will be instrumental in shaping a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future.