India’s 11-Year Climate Journey: Insights from Bhupender Yadav, Minister for Environment & Climate Change – TRIPURA STAR NEWS

Climate change is a pressing issue that affects everyone. According to the 6th Assessment Report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the Earth’s temperature has risen by 1.1 degrees Celsius between 2011 and 2020 compared to pre-industrial times. Interestingly, many developed countries continue to consume a large share of our carbon budget while hesitating to invest in solutions that drive climate action.

In India, we draw inspiration from ancient wisdom. The Vedic saying “Sarvebhavantusukhinah”—may all beings be happy—urges us to consider our impact on the planet. This philosophy has helped shape India’s climate strategy, focusing on balance and responsibility.

While many discuss the harsh realities of climate change—like extreme weather and rising sea levels—India has opted for a more proactive approach called “convenient action.” This mindset has made it a leader in global climate efforts over the past decade.

Take, for example, a verse from the Atharva Veda: it calls for respectful handling of Earth’s resources, a principle that our modern policies now echo. In 2014, right after taking office, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a significant move by adding “Climate Change” to the Ministry of Environment and Forests, signaling its importance in governance. Following this, the National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change was established in 2015 to help states adapt to climate impacts.

India’s leadership in climate negotiations has been notable. At COP21 in Paris in 2015, PM Modi played an essential role in shaping the Paris Agreement, showing that India was ready to take its climate responsibilities seriously. Instead of viewing commitments as burdens, India framed its first Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) thoughtfully, focusing on both domestic factors and global cooperation.

One major milestone was the formation of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), which now includes over 120 countries. This alliance allows solar-rich nations to collaborate on clean energy solutions. India has significantly ramped up its renewable energy capacity from 76 GW in 2014 to 220 GW by early 2025, with plans to hit 500 GW by 2030. This places India as a significant player in global renewable energy markets.

India also launched various programs to drive change. The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana from 2016 ensured millions of women access clean cooking fuel, enhancing social equity while addressing climate issues. The PM-KUSUM scheme from 2019 helped farmers use solar energy, while the Rooftop Solar Programme encouraged renewable energy adoption in urban settings.

The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) was announced at the UN Climate Action Summit in 2019, aiming to bolster infrastructure that can withstand climate challenges. Furthermore, the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for solar manufacturing launched in 2020 helped reduce reliance on imports and promote local manufacturing capabilities.

At COP26 in Glasgow in 2021, PM Modi introduced a groundbreaking initiative—the Panchamrit, a five-point plan to enhance India’s climate commitments, with a bold promise of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. During the same event, he announced Mission LiFE, aimed at involving citizens globally in climate action, setting a new standard for public participation in environmental initiatives.

In 2022, India updated its NDC, including a commitment to Mission LiFE as a guiding principle for a sustainable lifestyle, combining cultural values with modern living. By November of the same year, India unveiled its Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy, outlining a pathway for sustainable development while pursuing net-zero emissions. The National Green Hydrogen Mission was also launched, positioning India to become a hub for green hydrogen technology and exports.

Looking ahead, 2023 marked the launch of Viksit Bharat 2047, a vision for India to become a developed nation by its 100th anniversary, balancing ecological health with economic growth. This broader vision complements India’s ongoing climate actions and reflects a commitment to sustainability.

Recently, the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign called for individual participation in planting trees, inviting each person to contribute to climate solutions. In 2025, the launch of the Nuclear Energy Mission emphasized nuclear power as crucial for energy security, with plans for innovative Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to be operational by 2033.

India’s comprehensive approach combines government action with grassroots participation. It exemplifies the idea that climate action is a shared responsibility, turning it into a community movement. Additionally, India’s role in global initiatives—like the ISA and the CDRI—reflects the old Indian belief that “the world is one family,” stressing collaboration over mere critique.

In light of India’s G20 Presidency, climate considerations were integrated across various working groups, signaling a holistic approach to climate and development challenges. This shows how climate issues are intertwined with multiple sectors, moving beyond traditional confines to foster collective action.

As we face an uncertain future due to climate change, India continues to blend ancient wisdom with innovative solutions, championing a balanced approach to protect our planet for generations to come. Leading with empathy and responsibility sets a powerful example for global climate leadership.

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