Vijai Sharma: Remembering India’s Pioneering Climate Negotiator and Kyoto Protocol Visionary at 75

Veteran civil servant and climate diplomat Vijai Sharma passed away on July 23 in the U.S. at 75. He was visiting his son when he suffered a stroke. Originally from Lucknow, Sharma made significant contributions to India’s role in global climate discussions for over 15 years.

Sharma, a 1974 IAS officer from Uttar Pradesh, was pivotal in the 1997 Kyoto Protocol negotiations as the joint secretary of the Environment Ministry from 1995 to 2001. His leadership during these international talks laid the groundwork for India’s climate policies.

In 2002, Sharma helped ensure the success of the Conference of the Parties (COP-8) in New Delhi, a critical event in the country’s climate diplomacy. He returned to the Environment Ministry in 2008, this time as Secretary. There, he led India’s delegation to the 2008 Copenhagen Climate Conference, attended by more than 100 heads of state, a reflection of his standing in global forums.

Sharma also served as Chief Information Commissioner and had a significant role in the National Green Tribunal, guiding policies that shaped India’s environmental framework. Notably, he was considered for a leadership position within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2010.

A Harvard Law graduate, Sharma was also an avid history enthusiast and co-authored several books about India’s forts with his wife, Ritu Sharma, who is also an IAS officer. His reputation for expertise in climate law and policy made him a sought-after figure in both government and academic circles.

Former Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh praised Sharma as “the quintessential civil servant,” known for his precise execution and insightful advice, often delivered with a sense of humor. Colleagues, like former IAS officer RR Rashmi, highlighted Sharma’s meticulous approach. Rashmi recalled how Sharma would work tirelessly, even through the night, to coordinate negotiations for carbon market rules under the Kyoto Protocol.

Sharma’s legacy reminds us how much the climate conversation has evolved. Recent studies show countries are increasingly pledging to reduce carbon emissions, underscoring the importance of leaders like Sharma. As of 2022, more than 130 countries had set net-zero targets, significantly more than a decade ago.

His impact will be felt for years to come, especially as global climate efforts continue to gain momentum. Those interested in the evolution of environmental policy may want to explore reports from the United Nations Environment Programme or check out the latest climate research findings.

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