Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav, while addressing the India Climate Summit, stated that climate change is the most significant challenge of the 21st century. He emphasised that India has adopted a proactive and action-led approach to address the environmental crisis, focusing on sustainability, resilience, and clean growth.
In his keynote speech at the summit, Yadav outlined the government’s comprehensive efforts to reduce carbon emissions, increase renewable energy capacity, and promote sustainable development across sectors. He highlighted India’s commitment to meeting the targets set under the Paris Agreement and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Yadav pointed to various policy measures, such as the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), the International Solar Alliance, and recent amendments to environmental laws aimed at strengthening climate governance. He also stressed that India’s climate actions are not just commitments on paper but are backed by tangible on-ground execution and sectoral integration.
The minister stated that India has already achieved significant milestones, including a non-fossil fuel capacity of over 40 percent in its energy mix, nearly a decade ahead of its intended targets. Initiatives like UJALA for LED lighting, FAME for electric mobility, and PM-KUSUM for solar power in agriculture were cited as examples of action-driven policies that bring both environmental and economic benefits.
Yadav also addressed the global dimension of climate responsibility, noting that while India contributes only a small fraction to historical global emissions, it is among the nations most vulnerable to climate impacts. He called for enhanced global cooperation, particularly in areas like climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity building for developing nations.
He stressed the need for developed countries to honour their commitments, including the goal of mobilising USD 100 billion annually in climate finance. According to Yadav, equitable and accessible financing is essential for developing countries to transition to low-carbon economies without compromising developmental needs.
The India Climate Summit brought together government officials, environmental experts, industry leaders, and civil society organisations to discuss India’s roadmap for sustainable development and climate resilience. Key themes included the need for green infrastructure, promotion of clean technology, and collaborative climate governance at national and sub-national levels.
Several panel discussions at the summit highlighted the urgency of climate adaptation, especially for vulnerable communities affected by extreme weather events, water stress, and biodiversity loss. Participants also discussed the importance of integrating climate risks into urban planning and infrastructure development.
In his closing remarks, Yadav reiterated that India is not waiting for others to act. “India’s approach is rooted in the belief that environmental protection and economic development can go hand in hand,” he said. He urged all stakeholders—governments, industries, and citizens—to work together for a sustainable future.
The summit concluded with a call for continued dialogue, innovation, and global solidarity to effectively address climate change and protect future generations.
