India has taken a significant stance in the global fight against climate change, even though it has not been a primary contributor to the problem historically. While many major economies often prioritize immediate interests, India embraces a strategy rooted in climate justice, promoting low-carbon innovation and people-centric interventions. This approach balances sustainable growth with local and global collaboration.
India is particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. The country faces an increase in extreme weather events, including heatwaves, floods, droughts, and cyclones. Factors such as its large population, reliance on monsoons for agriculture, and extensive coastline heighten its vulnerability. With global temperatures rising by approximately 1.1°C since pre-industrial times, the frequency of these disasters threatens livelihoods, health, and food security.
India's climate diplomacy and domestic policies are guided by the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR). This principle acknowledges that although climate change is a global issue, developed nations hold greater historical accountability. In domestic contexts, India promotes the idea of vasudhaiva kutumbakam, meaning "the world is one family," which emphasizes moral responsibilities to protect the environment for future generations and vulnerable communities.
India has rolled out a variety of missions and schemes to tackle climate change effectively:
India has played a pivotal role in global clean energy transitions. Co-founding the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in 2015, India mobilizes over 120 countries towards adopting solar energy. From 2014 to March 2025, India’s renewable energy (RE) capacity surged from 76 GW to over 220 GW, with a target of reaching 500 GW by 2030. Today, India ranks as the fourth largest in RE deployment and third in solar energy production.
India aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, outlining a comprehensive strategy that includes:
The 'Panchamrit' is a five-point climate commitment that includes:
India supports innovation in climate sectors through various initiatives focusing on green hydrogen, clean technology manufacturing, and energy storage. The National Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat and the National Manufacturing Mission aim to scale green industries, while the Nuclear Energy Mission (2025) promotes research and indigenous development of small modular reactors (SMRs) to enhance energy security and decarbonization.
In multilateral forums, India emphasizes that environmental issues should not be detached from development goals. Actively engaging in climate negotiations, India backs South–South cooperation and advocates for inclusive climate financing. The country has also played a key role in launching the Global Biofuel Alliance, aiming to bolster climate resilience through disaster risk reduction and sustainable agricultural practices.
Unlike many developed countries that delay emissions reductions due to economic pressures, India pledges early action despite its lower per capita emissions. The country leverages climate policy as an opportunity for development, creating green jobs and improving public health, while ensuring energy access for marginalized communities.
India recognizes that sustainable climate solutions require behavioral changes at the grassroots level. Through initiatives like Mission LiFE and campaigns such as 'Meri LiFE, Mera Swachh Shehar' and 'Say No to Single Use Plastic', citizens are empowered to act as climate stewards, integrating ecological responsibility into daily life.
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