‘India demonstrated a resolute stance to ensure climate action’

New Delhi, Dec 13: At COP28 in Dubai, UAE, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and Labour and Employment, Bhupender Yadav, at one of the concluding sessions highlighted India's commitment to collaborative climate action for a greener planet.

Speaking at the closing plenary session, he emphasised that through its G20 Presidency led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India demonstrated a resolute stance to ensure climate action that 'leaves no one behind', echoing the principles of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.

Commending the fairness, transparency, and free exchange of thought under UAE's COP Presidency, Mr Yadav expressed India's support for the proposed COP decision document. He reiterated the adherence to the fundamental principles outlined in the Paris Agreement, emphasising the need for global action aligned with national circumstances.

India called upon global leaders participating in the COP28 climate talks to faithfully implement the Paris Agreement using the Global Stocktake process while upholding the principles of equity and climate justice.

The Minister underscored India's call for concrete measures to complement the determination exhibited at COP, grounded in the principles of equity and climate justice. He stressed the importance of developed countries taking the lead based on their historical contributions, and respecting national circumstances.

Yadav announced that under PM Modi's leadership, India had not only achieved its earlier Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) set for 2030 but had revised them upwards, affirming the country's unwavering commitment. He pledged India's continued responsible engagement, illustrating how the economy and ecology can coexist harmoniously.

The Minister extended India's compliments to the COP Presidency for their efforts and leadership, hailing the conference as historic. He highlighted the swift decision on the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund on the first day, marking a significant milestone in the conference's proceedings.

During weeklong discussions, India raised three concerns regarding achieving net zero emissions by around 2050. One of these concerns is the exclusion of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR). developed countries need to achieve net-negative emissions first, and it's essential to recognize the issue as one of cumulative carbon space. Developing nations, including India, aspire to fulfil, ensuring a dignified life for all. But without adequate financial support, a rapid phase-out of fossil fuels, particularly coal, is not feasible, expressing India's disagreement with such an approach.