India’s evolving stance on climate change reflects a commitment to clean energy in global geopolitics. Actively engaging in international fora, India advocates sustainable policies, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. This strategic shift enhances India’s diplomatic influence, reinforcing its role in shaping the global climate agenda.
UPSC Mains General Studies Paper – 2 Mains 2022
UPSC Mains Civil Services IAS Exam Question Paper – 2022
Approach
- Start with briefly explaining about the clean energy context to climate.
- Discuss on India’s climate change policy.
- Explain the climate policy change in the international context of geopolitics.
- Conclusion/ way forward.
Answer
Introduction
- Clean energy is energy that comes from renewable, zero emission sources that do not pollute the atmosphere when used, as well as energy saved by energy efficiency measures. There is a degree of crossover between clean energy and green or renewable energy sources, but they are not exactly the same. Clean energy works by producing power without having negative environmental impacts, such as the release of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide. A lot of clean energy is also renewable, including wind power, some hydro resources and solar powered energy generation.
Body
India’s climate change policy:
- India has recognized the significance of clean energy in the context of climate change and has taken significant steps towards achieving its renewable energy targets. The country’s commitment to the Paris Accord and the acceptance of net-zero targets reflects its pro-environment outlook, and its leadership role in promoting clean energy at the global level demonstrates its commitment towards a sustainable future.
- India has recognized the importance of clean energy in the context of climate change and has taken significant steps towards achieving its renewable energy targets. The country has set an ambitious target of achieving 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, including 280 GW of solar, 140 GW of wind, 10 GW of bioenergy, and 5 GW of hydro.
- To achieve this target, the government has implemented various policies and initiatives, such as the National Solar Mission, the National Wind Energy Mission, and the Green Energy Corridor project. India has also taken a leadership role in the promotion of clean energy at the global level.
- The country has launched the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in partnership with France to promote the use of solar energy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
The climate policy change in the international context of geopolitics:
- India’s changing policy towards climate change in various international fora reflects its geopolitical ambitions and outlook. India has recognized the significance of clean energy and has taken a leading role in several international initiatives. The International Solar Alliance, the One Sun, One World and One Grid programme, and the Lifestyle for Environment Movement are some of the initiatives in which India is actively involved.
- India has also become a beacon of hope for developing and underdeveloped countries by achieving its 2014 INDC target before the deadline. This achievement has encouraged other countries to seek assistance from India in their fight against climate change.
- India has also proposed that the developed economies make $1 trillion available for climate financing. This proposal has made India the voice of third world countries in their fight against climate change.
- A transition to clean energy presents a significant economic opportunity, and India is well placed to become a global leader in renewable batteries and green hydrogen. These and other low-carbon technologies could create a market worth up to $80 billion in India by 2030.
Conclusion
- Thus, India’s approach towards climate change has evolved from seeking energy security to taking a leading role in promoting clean energy at a global level, and its diplomatic efforts at various international fora reflect its pro-environment outlook. India has also become a beacon of hope for developing and underdeveloped countries in their fight against climate change and has proposed initiatives to make climate financing available for such countries. Overall, India’s changing climate policy demonstrates a recognition of the importance of clean energy and a commitment to tackling climate change on a global scale.
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