Question

Explain India’s role in protecting the environment from degradation.

Hint:

India's environmental role centers on advocating CBDR at global forums, ratifying the Paris Accord, launching the International Solar Alliance (ISA), executing the NAPCC, and promoting sustainable living through the LiFE initiative.

Answer 1

Concept: India has consistently championed the principle of "Common But Differentiated Responsibilities" (CBDR) in environmental protection, emphasizing that developed nations bear historical responsibility for global pollution while developing nations need policy space for sustainable growth. India's Role and Initiatives in Global & National Environmental Protection:
• Advocacy of "Common But Differentiated Responsibilities" (CBDR):
• At international summits such as the Rio Earth Summit (1992) and subsequent UN Climate Change Conferences (COP), India has firmly argued that developed countries have contributed disproportionately to cumulative historical greenhouse emissions.
• India asserts that while protecting the planet is a common goal, developed states must provide financial resources and technology transfer to developing nations to support clean energy transitions.
• Signing and Ratifying International Environmental Protocols:
• India signed and ratified the Kyoto Protocol in 2002 , committing to global climate goals.
• India also ratified the landmark Paris Climate Agreement (2015) , pledging ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), including lowering the emissions intensity of its GDP and increasing the share of non-fossil-fuel energy power.
• Leadership in Renewable Energy (International Solar Alliance - ISA):
• Co-founded by India and France in 2015, the International Solar Alliance (ISA) brings together solar-resource-rich countries to promote clean, affordable solar power generation.
• India has rapidly scaled its domestic solar and wind energy capacity, establishing massive solar parks to reduce reliance on coal power.
• Domestic Legislative Policy Measures:
• India enacted domestic environmental frameworks including the Environment Protection Act (1986), National Green Tribunal (NGT) Act (2010), and National Energy Conservation Act.
• Launch of national programs such as the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) featuring 8 specific missions (Solar Mission, Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Green India Mission, etc.).
• Promotion of Sustainable Development Practices (LiFE Movement):
• India advocates for traditional sustainable practices and launched global campaigns like Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) , encouraging individuals to adopt mindful consumption habits over reckless, resource-intensive consumerism.