Context:

India has emerged as a critical stakeholder in global climate governance, showcasing an evolving approach toward addressing climate change while safeguarding its developmental imperatives. This article examines India’s trajectory from skepticism to leadership in global climate negotiations, its role in climate finance, and its engagement with the Conference of Parties (COP).

India’s Historical Approach to Climate Action

·        India’s engagement with global climate governance dates back to the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm. Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi highlighted the need to balance environmental conservation with poverty alleviation, stating, “We do not wish to impoverish the environment any further, and yet we cannot for a moment forget the grim poverty of large numbers of people.”

·        Initially, environmental protection was perceived as a constraint on economic growth and industrialization, critical to poverty reduction and human development. However, the concept of sustainable development, which balances economic progress and environmental protection, encouraged India to align with global climate action efforts.

·        India’s consistent advocacy for the principles of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) and climate justice has shaped its stance in international climate negotiations. India has called for finance, technology transfer, and capacity-building support from developed nations to aid developing countries in combating climate change.

India’s Transition to a Climate Leader

Shift in Engagement Post-2000

·        India’s engagement in climate negotiations evolved significantly during the early 2000s. Hosting COP8 in New Delhi in 2002 demonstrated India’s growing interest in climate governance. In 2008, India introduced the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), underscoring its commitment to sustainable development.

·        The Paris Agreement of 2015 marked a pivotal shift in global climate governance, allowing countries to determine their climate commitments. India embraced this framework by submitting its first Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) in 2015 and updating it in 2022. These commitments reflect India’s proactive role in the global climate movement.

Climate Goals and Achievements

India’s updated NDC (2022) outlines ambitious climate targets, including:

• Reducing the emissions intensity of GDP by 33-35% from 2005 levels (achieved ahead of schedule).
• Achieving 40% cumulative electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel-based resources (target surpassed).

India has also been a major participant in carbon trading mechanisms under the Kyoto Protocol, with renewable energy projects accounting for 50% of its Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) initiatives.

India’s Stance at COP29

·        At COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, India rejected the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) text, citing its inadequacy in addressing the needs of the Global South. The NCQG aims to mobilize at least $300 billion annually for climate action in developing countries by 2035, with developed nations leading contributions.

·        India opposed the top-down “Just Transition” approach, arguing that such prescriptive measures contradict the principles of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. It reiterated that climate action must align with CBDR principles, respecting the developmental priorities of the Global South.

·        India’s negotiator, Chandni Raina, emphasized the need for collaboration and trust, criticizing the lack of inclusivity in decision-making. Other developing nations, including Nigeria, supported India’s objections.

India’s Expanding Role in Climate Finance

Recipient and Contributor

India has been both a beneficiary and contributor to global climate finance. It holds approximately 31% of the global carbon credits market and has leveraged initiatives like the CDM to transition to renewable energy. In 2022, India contributed $1.28 billion to climate finance for other developing countries, showcasing its leadership in South-South cooperation.

Challenges in Energy Transition

Despite progress, India faces significant challenges in reducing its dependence on fossil fuels, which account for 78% of its energy needs. Achieving a steady energy transition requires substantial investment, technological advancements, and capacity-building efforts.

India’s Leadership in Global Climate Initiatives

Innovative Climate Action Programs

India has spearheaded several international initiatives, including:

• International Solar Alliance (ISA): Promoting solar energy adoption globally.
• Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE): Advocating sustainable lifestyle practices.
• Mangrove Alliance for Climate: Protecting and restoring mangrove ecosystems.

These initiatives underscore India’s commitment to global climate leadership.

Engagement with Climate Groupings

India actively participates in coalitions such as the G77, Like-Minded Developing Countries (LMDC), and the BASIC Group (Brazil, South Africa, India, and China), advocating for equitable climate finance and technology transfer.

India has also leveraged non-climate forums like the G20, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to integrate climate issues into broader global agendas.

Intersections of Climate Change and Development

Climate change intersects with various global challenges, including migration, disasters, and biodiversity loss. India, with its diverse population and vulnerability to extreme weather events, stands to benefit significantly from the Loss and Damage Fund, operationalized at COP29. This fund aims to provide financial support to nations disproportionately affected by climate change.

The Road Ahead: Balancing Ambition and Equity

India’s growing influence in global climate governance positions it as a bridge between developed and developing nations. However, several steps are crucial for India to strengthen its leadership role:

1.    Enhanced Climate Finance Mobilization: Accelerate investments in renewable energy and capacity-building.

2.    Strengthened International Alliances: Collaborate with developing nations to advocate for equitable climate action.

3.    Integrated Climate Policy: Align domestic policies with global commitments to achieve sustainable development goals.

Conclusion:

As the 29th COP concludes, India’s role in global climate governance highlights its evolution from a cautious participant to a proactive leader. Guided by the principles of CBDR and sustainable development, India continues to champion equitable climate action while addressing the developmental aspirations of its population. With its strategic initiatives and expanding influence, India is well-positioned to bridge gaps between developed and developing nations, fostering collaboration on critical issues like equity, finance, and technology transfer. By strengthening its commitments and leveraging international platforms, India can lead the global fight against climate change, ensuring a just and sustainable future for all.