India Achieves Remarkable Reduction in GHG Emissions Amid Global Challenges
India reduced its GHG emissions by 7.93% in 2020, showcasing its commitment to climate action. Minister Yadav emphasized India’s leadership role in climate discourse and called for developed countries to meet their financial obligations. He outlined India’s long-term goals, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and the need for justice in global climate negotiations.
India demonstrated a significant commitment to climate action by reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 7.93% in 2020. This achievement was highlighted by Bhupender Yadav, Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, during his address at the World Sustainable Development Summit 2025. He remarked that the Global South is at the forefront of the climate agenda, positioning India as a crucial leader in these efforts.
According to India’s fourth biennial report to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the reduction in GHG emissions was measured against 2019 levels, noting a substantial increase of 98.34% since 1994. The nation has made strides in detaching its economic growth from emissions, successfully lowering the emission intensity of its GDP by 36% between 2005 and 2020.
Analysts point out that the decrease in GHG emissions in 2020 may be affected by the economic impacts of Covid-19, which resulted in a contraction of 7.7% in the Indian economy for 2020-21. Despite these challenges, the Government of India implemented various recovery measures to bolster economic growth while adhering to its climate commitments.
Yadav, addressing the summit, asserted that India intends to maintain its role as a global climate leader, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in climate action. He stressed that the Global South experiences the worst consequences of climate change and simultaneously offers sustainable solutions.
He urged developed countries to fulfill their financial and technological responsibilities under the Paris Agreement, advocating for enhanced international cooperation to strengthen Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Yadav also called for increased financial support for climate adaptation, particularly for vulnerable regions, to implement effective resilience strategies.
Looking towards the future, Yadav outlined India’s aim to become a developed nation by 2047, with a target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. He highlighted the significant reduction in emission intensity of GDP and the Union Budget of 2025’s focus on energy security, clean energy capacity expansion, and domestic green technology manufacturing. He underscored the necessity for cohesive action against climate change and called for reforms in global governance that prioritize equity and justice in climate negotiations.
In summary, India’s reduction of GHG emissions by 7.93% in 2020 underscores its commitment to climate action. The nation’s dedication to sustainable growth is reflected in its significant achievements while facing the challenges posed by the global pandemic. Moreover, India’s aim to lead in climate initiatives, coupled with calls for developed nations to meet their commitments, emphasizes the need for collaborative and equitable approaches to tackle climate change effectively. As India sets ambitious targets for the future, its strategies will be instrumental in driving forward the global climate agenda.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
