What India's delayed climate pledge means for global warming
What's the story
India, the third-largest carbon emitter in the world, has not yet submitted its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) at this year's UN climate summit (COP30) in Belem, Brazil. The NDCs are key climate plans that countries are required to submit every five years under the Paris Agreement. So far, around 120 of the 196 member countries of the UNFCCC have submitted their updated plans, and India is among those yet to do so.
Position
India's stance on climate action and financial support
India has argued that developed countries are historically responsible for emissions and should provide more financial support to developing nations. A week before COP30, Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav wrote in the Economic Times that "global climate progress can't come from endless discussions alone." He emphasized the need for action over prolonged negotiations. At COP30, Yadav reiterated this by saying developed countries must reach net zero sooner and provide trillions in climate finance.
Progress
India's climate targets and challenges
India has met its pledge to have 50% of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources ahead of the 2030 deadline. However, global assessments have rated India's climate targets as "highly insufficient." The Climate Change Performance Index by environmental think-tank GermanWatch noted that coal's share in India's total electricity generation remains around 75%. It should drop to at least 19% for India to align with the global goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C.
Emissions
India's greenhouse gas emissions and COP30 discussions
According to the recent UN emissions gap report, India witnessed the highest increase in greenhouse gas emissions in 2024 compared to last year. This was followed by China and Indonesia. Meanwhile, COP30 is also debating whether a roadmap for phasing out fossil fuels should be announced. It remains to be seen if India's coal dependence will affect its updated climate plan due by year's end.