Q. Write a review on India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement (2015) and mention how these have been further strengthened in COP26 (2021). In this direction, how has the first Nationally Determined Contribution intended by India been updated in 2022?

Model Answer:

India’s Climate Commitments: From Paris Agreement to Updated NDC

India, accounting for 7% of global emissions while supporting 17% of world population, has demonstrated exemplary climate leadership through progressively strengthened commitments since the Paris Agreement, balancing developmental imperatives with environmental responsibilities.

Paris Agreement (2015) – Foundation Commitments

India’s original Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) under the Paris Agreement established three quantifiable targets for 2030:

• Emissions Intensity Reduction: Committed to reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 33-35% from 2005 levels, decoupling economic growth from carbon emissions through initiatives like PAT scheme, LED distribution.

• Clean Energy Transition: Targeted 40% cumulative electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, accelerating renewable deployment through National Solar Mission, wind energy programs.

• Natural Carbon Sink: Pledged to create additional carbon sink of 2.5-3 billion tonnes CO2 equivalent through enhanced forest cover via Green India Mission, compensatory afforestation.

COP26 Glasgow (2021) – Panchamrit Pledges

Prime Minister Modi’s “Panchamrit” announcement marked a transformative leap in India’s climate ambition:

• Renewable Capacity: Increased non-fossil energy target to 500 GW by 2030, quintupling solar parks, offshore wind projects.

• Energy Mix: Committed 50% energy requirements from renewable sources, promoting rooftop solar, green hydrogen mission.

• Absolute Emissions: Pledged reducing one billion tonnes projected carbon emissions by 2030, emphasizing energy efficiency, electric mobility.

• Enhanced Intensity Target: Raised carbon intensity reduction to 45% from earlier 33-35%, strengthening industrial decarbonization.

• Long-term Vision: Announced Net-Zero by 2070, aligning with global temperature goals.

Updated NDC (August 2022) – Formalized Ambitions

India’s revised NDC formally incorporated key Panchamrit commitments while introducing innovative approaches. The emissions intensity reduction target was officially enhanced to 45%, while non-fossil fuel power capacity goal increased to 50%. Significantly, it introduced ‘LIFE’ (Lifestyle for Environment) movement, promoting sustainable consumption patterns through behavioral change campaigns, circular economy principles.

Conclusion:
India’s evolving climate commitments demonstrate responsible leadership, balancing ambitious mitigation with equitable development while championing climate justice.