India’s anticipated failure to meet the February 10 deadline for submitting its updated climate action plan under the Paris Agreement is both disappointing and telling. While India is not alone—most G20 nations have also missed the deadline—the delay reflects a broader pattern of political inertia in addressing the climate crisis. With global temperatures rising at an alarming rate, the reluctance to take decisive action signals a troubling lack of urgency.
The Paris Agreement mandates countries to submit revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) every five years, ensuring a progressive increase in ambition to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. However, a UNFCCC study last year revealed that the current NDCs, even if fully implemented, would only bring down global warming to 2.6°C by 2030—far above the critical threshold. Yet, instead of leveraging this round of NDCs to introduce bold, transformative measures, India and several other nations seem content with incremental progress.
One of the primary issues with India’s climate strategy is its cautious approach to emissions reductions. While India has made strides in renewable energy, its continued reliance on coal undermines long-term sustainability. If the country intends to balance development with climate commitments, the revised NDCs must include robust, sector-specific roadmaps—not just broad, aspirational targets. Furthermore, India should resist the temptation to rely excessively on carbon credits, a mechanism that has often served as a smokescreen for inaction rather than a genuine solution.
The US’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement under President Trump undoubtedly disrupted global climate negotiations, placing additional pressure on other major emitters to step up. However, instead of using this as an opportunity to lead, India appears to be waiting for global consensus before making substantial commitments. This hesitation is counterproductive. If India aspires to be a global leader, it must proactively drive climate action rather than follow a wait-and-watch approach.
Moreover, climate justice should be at the core of India’s strategy. The country has long argued that developed nations bear a greater historical responsibility for emissions, and rightfully so. However, this should not be used as an excuse for domestic inaction. A well-defined transition plan, ensuring sustainable development while prioritizing emissions reduction, is crucial. India must integrate climate resilience into economic planning, rather than treating it as a separate, negotiable issue.
With record-breaking temperatures and extreme weather events becoming the new normal, the world cannot afford further delays. The Paris Agreement was built on trust and shared responsibility—both of which are rapidly eroding. India’s next move will determine whether it is a climate laggard or a true leader in the fight against global warming. The September deadline is looming, and this time, the world is watching.
