India plans to cut emission intensity by 35 percent to achieve climate target by 2030

In a climate-change policy statement released, India has promised to reduce emission rates by 33 – 35 percent by the year 2030 from the emission intensity levels of 2005. This policy has been framed by government in an effort to make the economy more efficient in energy utilization. This policy has been announced prior to an important UN summit that will be held in Paris in month of December. Prakash Javadekar, Environment Minister today revealed the Intended Nationally Determined Contribution said, “Goal is to reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 33%-35% from 2005 level, by 2030.” This contribution outlines the plan drawn to combat climate change. This Thursday UN framework convention was held to discuss about climate change, in which this 38 – page policy was submitted. According to a study, India is counted as third largest Greenhouse gases emitter in the world.

To reduce emission levels, India said that it is targeting 40 percent of the cumulative power capacity to be harnessed from non – fossil fuel sources. Peak years of emission have been announced by some nations including United States and China in contrast to India – where New Delhi ruled out the possibility of absolute carbon emission cuts. While calling for a more ‘comprehensive and equitable climate change agreement’ at the upcoming UN summit, India said that developing countries if assisted with better financial, technological and capacity support provisions can do better in cutting down emissions.

Sushma Swaraj, External Affairs Minister while addressing UN General Assembly’s annual debate on Thursday said, “As we prepare to meet in two months’ time in Paris, the world expects us to deliver an ambitious and credible agreement on climate change. We have a duty for common action but in doing, so we must keep in mind the larger historical contribution of some and the differentiated responsibility of others.”

According to the government, it will cost $2.5 trillion at minimum to meet the target. PM Narendra Modi met world leaders including US President and Britain and France’s leaders last month and discussed about the climate change agenda that aims at helping developing countries to access technology and finance.

Image Source: NDTV