/prod-the-processor/media/agency_attachments/EB8E9EAMaN2KqoFW4QbL.png)
In 2023, India's environmental landscape changed significantly due to several initiatives and important global engagements, shaping the nation's ecological path.
Green Credit Initiative and Augmented NDC Targets
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary leadership saw the launch of the Green Credit Initiative, a pioneering venture within the government's Lifestyle for Environment (LIFE) movement. Under the Green Credit Rules 2023, rooted in the Environment Protection Act 1986, this initiative incentivizes positive environmental actions, initially focusing on voluntary tree plantation efforts.
India's National Determined Contributions (NDC) underwent significant revisions, propelling the country's commitment to sustainability to greater heights. The nation elevated its goals, aiming for a more ambitious reduction in emissions intensity from the 2005 level - now set at an impressive 45 percent by 2030. Simultaneously, India targeted a substantial 50 percent non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030, exceeding earlier commitments by leaps and bounds.
Global Engagements at COP 28
During the 28th Session of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 28), India exhibited proactive engagement and leadership. The outcomes from this influential summit underscored the nation's commitment to elevating global climate ambitions and operationalizing crucial mechanisms, in alignment with the Paris Agreement.
India has surpassed its NDC targets well ahead of schedule, achieving commendable milestones. The cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources now stands at an encouraging 43.81% of the total. Furthermore, the nation has already achieved a remarkable 33% reduction in emission intensity between 2005 and 2019.
Submitting the Third National Communication to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, India presented meticulous details concerning greenhouse gas emissions, climate change vulnerability, and comprehensive mitigation and adaptation measures. The energy sector significantly contributed 75.81% to overall anthropogenic emissions.
Environmental Endeavors
Mission LiFE, inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi in 2022, garnered international acclaim, placing individual behavior change at the forefront of the global climate action narrative. India's groundbreaking India Cooling Action Plan outlines a visionary 20-year strategy for comprehensive cooling solutions. Additionally, the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) aims to restore and sustain mangrove forests along India's coastlines.
India's unwavering commitment to environmental conservation is evident through the designation of new Ramsar sites, expanded protected areas, and the augmentation of both forest and tree cover. The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act 2023 seeks to streamline processes and foster extensive afforestation endeavors.
Integrating the PARIVESH 2.0 platform with Gatishakti and NSWS aims to expedite green clearances and fortify monitoring mechanisms, ensuring more efficient decision-making.
Advancements in Air Quality, Circular Economy, and Wildlife Conservation
Under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), cities witnessed tangible improvements in air quality, showcasing the impact of sustained efforts. Initiatives like Mission Circular Economy and the transcontinental relocation of cheetahs underscore India's commitment to sustainable practices and wildlife conservation.