India Climate Commitments under Paris Agreement
Discuss India commitments under the Paris Agreement. How have India NDCs evolved and what are the challenges?
Model Answer
Introduction: India is the world's 3rd largest emitter. Under the Paris Agreement (2015), India submitted updated NDCs in 2022.
Updated NDC Targets:
- Reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030 (from 2005 levels)
- 50% cumulative power from non-fossil sources by 2030
- Net Zero by 2070 (announced at COP26)
Progress:
- Renewable energy capacity crossed 200 GW in 2024
- International Solar Alliance — India's global initiative
Challenges:
- Coal dependency for energy security
- Climate finance gap from developed nations
- Just transition challenges for coal-dependent communities
Conclusion: India has shown climate leadership. Technology transfer and climate finance from developed nations remain critical.