Context:
India has updated its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), outlining enhanced targets for emission reduction and clean energy transition while balancing developmental priorities.
Key Highlights:
- Emission Reduction Targets
- Reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 47% from 2005 levels by 2035.
- Energy Transition Goals
- Achieve 60% power generation from non-fossil fuel sources.
- Carbon Sink Enhancement
- Increase forest and tree cover to create an additional 3.5–4 billion tonnes CO₂ equivalent sink.
- Policy Approach
- Focus on incremental progress and continuity rather than drastic shifts.
- Reflects India’s developmental constraints and priorities.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- NDCs:
- Voluntary climate targets under Paris Agreement (2015)
- Emissions Intensity:
- Emissions per unit of GDP
- Carbon Sink:
- Natural/artificial systems that absorb CO₂ (forests, soil)
- Non-fossil Energy:
- Includes renewables (solar, wind), nuclear, hydro
Relevant Mains Points:
- Balancing Development and Climate Action:
- India is a lower-middle-income country with growth priorities
- Needs energy for industrialization and urbanization
- Climate Justice and Equity:
- India emphasizes common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR)
- Low per capita emissions compared to developed nations
- Energy Transition Challenges:
- Need for massive investments in renewable infrastructure
- Grid stability and battery storage limitations
- Economic Implications:
- Transition costs without adequate climate finance support
- Potential impact on manufacturing competitiveness
- Strategic Opportunities:
- Leadership in green hydrogen, EVs, and renewables
- Enhances energy security and reduces import dependence
- Way Forward:
- Scale up renewable energy investments
- Strengthen grid infrastructure and storage systems
- Enhance international climate finance access
- Promote green technologies and innovation
- Integrate climate goals with economic planning
UPSC Relevance:
• GS 3: Environment, Climate Change
• GS 2: International Relations