Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The imperative for ‘clean energy’ has become globally paramount, driven by the escalating impacts of climate change and the urgent need for sustainable development. India, as the world’s most populous nation and a rapidly growing economy, is a crucial player in this transition. Historically, India emphasized the principle of ‘common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities’ (CBDR-RC) in international climate negotiations, advocating for developed nations to take greater responsibility. However, in recent years, India’s policy towards climate change has undergone a significant evolution, marked by increased ambition, proactive engagement in international fora, and a growing commitment to renewable energy. This shift is intricately linked to evolving geopolitical realities and India’s own developmental priorities.
India’s Evolving Policy: A Forum-Wise Analysis
India’s approach to climate change has been multifaceted, adapting to the specific dynamics of each international forum.
1. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) & Conference of Parties (COP)
- Early Phase (Kyoto Protocol): India primarily focused on highlighting the historical responsibility of developed nations for greenhouse gas emissions and resisted binding emission reduction targets.
- Post-2009 (Copenhagen Accord): India pledged a voluntary emission intensity reduction target of 20-25% by 2020, conditional on financial and technological support from developed countries.
- Paris Agreement (2015): India submitted its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), committing to reduce the emission intensity of its GDP by 33-35% by 2030 from 2005 levels, and achieve about 40% cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based sources.
- Recent COP Meetings (COP26, COP28): India has actively pushed for climate finance commitments from developed nations to meet the $100 billion annual goal, emphasized the need for Loss and Damage funding, and advocated for a just and equitable transition. At COP28 (2023), India championed the Global Stocktake and pushed for phasing down fossil fuels.
2. G20
- India’s G20 Presidency (2023) prioritized climate finance, technology transfer, and lifestyle for sustainability (“LiFE”).
- India advocated for a collaborative approach to address climate change, emphasizing the need for all nations to contribute their fair share.
- The New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration reaffirmed commitment to the Paris Agreement and called for scaled-up climate finance.
3. International Solar Alliance (ISA)
- India played a pivotal role in the establishment of the ISA in 2015, a collaborative platform dedicated to promoting solar energy.
- The ISA aims to mobilize investments for solar energy projects, promote research and development, and facilitate technology transfer.
- It represents a key element of India’s climate diplomacy, fostering South-South cooperation.
4. Bilateral Engagements
- United States: The US-India Climate and Clean Energy Agenda 2030 focuses on mobilizing finance, deploying clean technologies, and enhancing climate resilience.
- European Union: India and the EU have a strategic partnership on climate change, focusing on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable development.
- Japan: Collaboration on clean energy technologies, including hydrogen and ammonia, is a key area of focus.
Geopolitical Implications
India’s changing climate policy is deeply intertwined with geopolitical considerations:
- Energy Security: Balancing the need for affordable and reliable energy with the transition to clean energy sources is a key challenge. India continues to rely on coal for a significant portion of its energy needs, but is rapidly expanding its renewable energy capacity.
- North-South Divide: India continues to advocate for the principle of CBDR-RC, emphasizing the historical responsibility of developed nations.
- Climate Diplomacy: India is leveraging its growing economic and political influence to promote climate action and advocate for its interests in international negotiations.
- Strategic Partnerships: Climate change is becoming an increasingly important dimension of India’s strategic partnerships with other countries.
| Forum | India’s Key Position | Geopolitical Context |
|---|---|---|
| UNFCCC/COP | CBDR-RC, Climate Finance, Loss & Damage | North-South divide, Developed nations’ commitments |
| G20 | Climate Finance, LiFE, Collaborative Approach | Global economic cooperation, Sustainable development |
| ISA | Solar Energy Promotion, Technology Transfer | South-South cooperation, Renewable energy access |
Conclusion
India’s climate policy has undergone a significant transformation, evolving from a defensive stance to a more proactive and ambitious approach. This shift is driven by both domestic developmental needs and evolving geopolitical realities. While challenges remain in balancing energy security with climate commitments, India’s leadership in initiatives like the ISA and its active engagement in international fora demonstrate its commitment to a sustainable future. Continued emphasis on climate finance, technology transfer, and collaborative partnerships will be crucial for achieving India’s climate goals and contributing to global climate action.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.