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India has made significant strides toward reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, achieving a 7.93% reduction in 2020 compared to 2019, as highlighted in the country’s 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This reduction showcases India’s ongoing commitment to a climate-resilient future, in line with its pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, as announced at COP26 in 2021. The country’s efforts are consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, striving for 1.5°C.
The energy sector remains the largest contributor to emissions, accounting for 75.66% of India’s total GHG emissions. However, India has been actively working on various initiatives to combat climate change while addressing its developmental needs. Despite being home to 17% of the world’s population, India has contributed only about 4% of cumulative global GHG emissions from 1850 to 2019. The country’s low primary energy consumption per capita further highlights its efforts to manage emissions while supporting growth and development.
India’s climate action plan includes the Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS), which focuses on several strategic transitions. These include the development of low-carbon electricity systems, the promotion of efficient, inclusive transport systems, and efforts to decouple economic growth from emissions. The government has also emphasized the importance of increasing forest and vegetation cover to further reduce CO2 levels.
In addition to these measures, India has undertaken several climate action initiatives to promote sustainability. For example, the Green Credit Program, launched in 2023, focuses on tree plantation in degraded forest areas, while the National Afforestation Programme (NAP) supports afforestation across the country. India is also taking steps to promote sustainable urban planning through policies like the Smart Cities Mission and Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana, which integrate low-carbon strategies in urban development.
One of the key aspects of India’s environmental initiatives is the conservation of coastal ecosystems. Financial assistance is being provided to coastal states for the protection of mangroves and coral reefs, with programs like the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) focusing on restoring and reforesting mangroves. Moreover, the government is strengthening regulatory measures to ensure climate resilience, such as the Coastal Regulation Zone notifications aimed at protecting vital coastal ecosystems.
Innovative methods are also being adopted to enhance green cover. For instance, the Miyawaki technique, which involves dense tree planting, has been used to create green spaces in preparation for the Mahakumbh 2025 event. This initiative combines environmental sustainability with cultural practices, aiming to improve air quality and ensure a healthy environment for millions of visitors expected at the event.
These concerted efforts reflect India’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint while ensuring economic growth. By integrating sustainability into various sectors and focusing on innovative solutions like forest restoration, clean air initiatives, and low-carbon transport, India is paving the way toward a greener and more climate-resilient future. As the country continues its journey towards carbon neutrality, these initiatives will play a crucial role in meeting its long-term climate goals and ensuring a balance between development and environmental responsibility. |
