Mumbai: Times Network, a premium broadcast network hosted the inaugural edition of the India Climate Summit 2024 in New Delhi. The Summit brought together key stakeholders and climate champions to discuss and devise a definitive action plan for India’s future as an environmentally sustainable and responsible nation focusing on embodying India’s vision of achieving a net-zero economy by 2070.
The special address at the Summit was delivered by Bhupender Yadav, minister of environment, Forest & Climate Change. The Insightful sessions were delivered by distinguished speakers including, Erik Solheim, former under-secretary-general of the United Nations and executive director of UNEP; Dr Vibha Dhawan, director general, TERI; Mozaharul Alam, regional climate change coordinator (UNEP) and APAN Secretariat amongst others.
Delivering the special address and participating in a fireside chat, Bhupender Yadav, union minister of environment, Forest & Climate Change, said, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has remarkably met its climate targets over the past decade, a testament to our national resolve. Pioneering initiatives like ‘1 Ped Maa Ke Naam’ and the widespread adoption of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) exemplify our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. India’s achievements, from surpassing global carbon intensity reduction goals to fulfilling our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and generating over 41 per cent of our electricity from renewable sources, highlight our steadfast dedication to a greener future. Initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and our proactive stance in disaster resilience through the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure underscores our commitment to global sustainability. This proactive stance not only sets a global benchmark but also showcases India’s unparalleled ability to harmonize economic growth with environmental stewardship. Three critical challenges lie ahead, controlling carbon emissions from human-centric development, balancing our consumption of natural resources, and combating land degradation. Despite political opposition, our proactive approach to climate action remains steadfast. India’s achievements in reducing carbon emission intensity and increasing non-consumable energy capacity ahead of global targets reflect our dedication to sustainable development. We advocate for mindful consumption and environmental stewardship. Our efforts, including providing Soil Health Cards to 30 crore farmers and launching initiatives like ‘1 Ped Maa Ke Naam,’ reflect our dedication to preserving Mother Earth. As we move forward, India invites global collaboration to achieve a greener, sustainable future for all. We must integrate our cultural values with technological advancements to foster mindful consumption.”
The India Climate Summit successfully concluded with several notable highlights. A white paper, prepared in conjunction with EY, was unveiled, offering practical insights and ideas for managing India’s climate and sustainability transition. Additionally, to offset the event’s carbon footprint, over a thousand trees were planted, demonstrating a tangible commitment to environmental responsibility.
