India’s Climate Ambitions:
India is preparing to submit its next round of climate commitments (NDCs) for the 2035 horizon even as experts call for a clearer, economy-wide transition plan.
- Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are each country’s self-defined climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, updated every five years (Article 4).They include targets for emissions reduction, renewable energy, adaptation, climate finance and technology deployment.
India’s Current NDC Targets:
- Reduce Emissions Intensity by 45% (2005–2030): India commits to lowering CO₂ emissions per unit of GDP by almost half, signalling a shift toward cleaner production while sustaining economic growth.
- 50% Non-Fossil Installed Capacity by 2030: India aims to ensure half of its total power capacity comes from solar, wind, hydro, nuclear and biomass, contingent on affordable global finance and technology transfer.
- Additional 2.5–3 Bt CO₂ Carbon Sink: Through large-scale afforestation and agroforestry, India plans to expand forest/tree cover to naturally sequester emissions by 2030.
- Promote LIFE Movement: India pledges to mainstream sustainable lifestyles through behavioural change campaigns encouraging low-carbon consumption and resource-efficient habits.
- Strengthen Adaptation in Vulnerable Sectors: Investments will be scaled in agriculture, water, coastal systems, Himalayan ecology, health and disaster management to reduce climate risks.
- Mobilise Climate Finance & Technology: India seeks both domestic funds and international support to expand renewable energy, adaptation systems, and indigenous research in climate technologies.
