India (Commonwealth Union)_ Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the high-level segment of the COP28 meeting, called for a collective commitment to address climate change and emphasized the need for developing countries to have equitable access to the remaining global carbon budget. Urging nations to transcend narrow self-interests, Modi underscored the urgency of fulfilling climate obligations, asserting that time is of the essence to rectify the mistakes of the past century.
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During the meeting, PM Modi proposed India’s hosting of the 2028 climate change conference, COP33, demonstrating India’s commitment to global climate action. Highlighting India’s proactive stance on climate change, Modi stressed that India is on track to fulfill its climate commitments, setting an example for other large economies. He emphasized the importance of all countries meeting their climate targets, and he urged for ambitious climate actions with a just, inclusive, equitable, and innovative approach to energy transition. Modi particularly emphasized the need for developed nations to facilitate the transfer of innovative technology to other countries, fostering a collaborative approach to address climate challenges.
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Modi stated, “We do not have much time to correct the mistakes of the previous century. If we think only about our own interests, it will push the planet towards darkness. Countries need to rise above their narrow self-interests, and fulfill all their climate obligations. Each one of us has to fulfil our respective responsibilities. We have to take the pledge that we will deliver on our promises and commitments, and achieve our targets”. He added, “We also will have to be ambitious (in our climate actions)… The energy transition (that is required) has to be just, inclusive, equitable and innovative. We must develop innovative technology… and the developed countries must agree to transfer this technology to others”.
In addition to outlining India’s global climate initiatives, such as the International Solar Alliance, Coalition of Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure, and Lifestyle for Environment Campaign, Modi introduced the Green Credits Initiative. This initiative, launched by the Environment Ministry, incentivizes environmental actions by providing green credits for projects contributing positively to the environment. In its initial phase, the program acknowledges activities related to water conservation and afforestation.
Modi presented this initiative as a market-based mechanism prioritizing public participation in environmentally beneficial projects, emphasizing its proactive and positive nature. Overall, the Prime Minister’s engagement at COP28 showcased India’s dedication to sustainable development and climate resilience, emphasizing the importance of global collaboration and innovative solutions in the fight against climate change.
