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THE CONTEXT: As India’s new government settles in, its approach to scaling up climate action will be crucial for every ministry and sector. The choices will shape India’s sustainable economic path, strengthen its position as a voice for the Global South, and drive the fight for climate finance and justice over the next five years. India must take pivotal steps to enhance its climate leadership and economic development.
THE POTENTIAL PROSPECTS:
- Global Leadership and International Climate Diplomacy: India has laid the foundation for several international institutions, such as the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and the Global Biofuels Alliance. These efforts underscore India’s commitment to shaping global climate narratives and institutions. Hosting significant international climate summits, like the potential United Nations Conference of Parties in 2028, is part of this strategy. India aims to secure global commitments on critical issues such as adaptation finance and the cessation of new oil and gas investments post-2030.
- Ambitious Emission Mitigation Targets: India has set bold emission mitigation targets, including a net-zero goal by 2070 and ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). These targets represent a shift from relative emissions-intensity-based goals to absolute emission reductions. The net-zero announcement has catalyzed domestic debate and action among policymakers and the private sector, emphasizing the importance of near-term emission reductions.
- Sectoral Emission Reduction Targets: While significant progress has been made in the power sector, India recognizes the need to broaden its emission reduction targets to other industries. This includes setting clear targets for zero-carbon two- and four-wheelers, which would benefit urban and rural areas by driving job creation in clean energy and promoting economic growth. The upcoming NDC for 2035 presents an opportunity to expand these targets and further India’s energy transition.
- Sub-National Climate Action and Resilience: State-level climate action is crucial for India’s overall climate strategy. Initiatives like the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW) working with states such as Tamil Nadu and Bihar on their net-zero plans highlight the importance of sub-national efforts. The government is encouraged to create a Centre-State coordination group, incentivize state-level actions through the Sixteenth Finance Commission, and promote scientific modeling capabilities in policymaking. This approach ensures better coordination of state-level actions without compromising their autonomy.
- Integration of Sustainability in Economic Policies: Sustainability-linked economic policies are becoming central to India’s development strategy. Creating an Indian emissions carbon trading scheme is a significant step towards integrating sustainability into financial planning. This scheme is expected to operate for 30-40 years, providing a long-term framework for emission reductions. Policies promoting renewable energy, green hydrogen, and energy efficiency are crucial to India’s sustainable economic path.
THE WAY FORWARD:
- Strengthening International Climate Leadership: India has already demonstrated leadership through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. Hosting COP28 would solidify India’s leadership role and provide a platform to push for ambitious global climate policies. The success of the Paris Agreement, driven by France’s proactive diplomacy, shows the impact of hosting and leading international climate negotiations.
- Expanding Sectoral Emission Reduction Targets: India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and creation of an Indian emissions carbon trading scheme highlight the potential for broader sectoral targets. Expanding targets to other sectors will drive comprehensive decarbonization and economic growth. The European Union’s sectoral targets under the European Green Deal have led to significant emission reductions across multiple sectors.
- Enhancing State-Level Climate Action and Coordination: Coordinated state-level actions are crucial for achieving national climate goals. States like Tamil Nadu and Bihar have already developed net-zero plans, indicating the feasibility of state-level initiatives. The United States Climate Alliance, a coalition of states committed to climate action, demonstrates the effectiveness of sub-national coordination.
- Accelerating Renewable Energy Deployment: Increase investments in renewable energy infrastructure, including solar, wind, and green hydrogen, to meet and exceed the 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030. This includes enhancing grid infrastructure and energy storage capabilities. Germany’s Energiewende (energy transition) policy has successfully increased renewable energy capacity and reduced emissions.
- Promoting Climate Finance and Just Transition: Advocate for increased climate finance from developed countries and ensure a just transition for communities dependent on fossil fuels. India will require an estimated $14-17 trillion to achieve net-zero status by 2070, highlighting the need for substantial international support. South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Partnership, which secured $8.5 billion from international partners, is a model for financing a just transition.
THE CONCLUSION:
India’s new government has a unique opportunity to elevate its global climate leadership. India can demonstrate that economic growth and sustainability are not mutually exclusive by setting ambitious targets, broadening sectoral goals, and fostering state-level climate actions. The next five years will be critical in showcasing India’s prowess in climate diplomacy and sustainable development.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:
Q.1 Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will shifting subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective? Explain. 2022
Q.2 Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at the World Leaders Summit of the COP 26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? 2021
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1 Discuss the steps India must take to enhance its global climate leadership while ensuring sustainable economic growth.
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