India climate change policy

The serious impact of climate change on India’s economic aspiration has begun to figure on the government’s agenda or at least in its public pronouncements.

The expectation for Indian politicians to “be with the people” now encompasses standing with them through their lived experiences of climate change.

Climate pledges and the energy transition can only truly be achieved when these are linked with development promises. At present, however, there seems to be a gap. 

As a first step, India has identified 19 plastic items that aren't very useful but have a high potential to become litter, including plastic cups, straws, and ice cream sticks.

Big solar and wind facilities are sparking conflicts with local communities as land ownership is fuzzy at many project sites.

We need a much more ambitious global partnership on the phasing out of coal, one that thinks and acts beyond what is perceived as feasible today.

India’s aspirational climate action policies fit into a general pattern of incremental progress at the global level that lacks the collective sense of urgency required.

Neighborhood first should be the focus of India’s climate change diplomacy.

Trump's withdrawal is a blow to the agreement, but could provide opportunities for India.

Recent initiatives suggest the country could play a more confident role at COP 21.

The rhetoric is impressive, but the government’s policies look unsustainable.