Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Space and Nuclear Energy has expressed India’s commitment to achieving the goal of net zero emissions by 2070. What is the repetition? It fulfills the promise. With the announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and underlines India’s commitment to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through research, innovation and international cooperation.
Speaking at the ‘Green Ribbon Champions’ program in New Delhi, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s holistic approach to tackling climate change and its commitment to both short-term and long-term goals. These goals include reaching 500 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030, meeting half of our energy needs from renewable sources by 2030, reducing CO2 emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030, reducing carbon emissions by 2030. Reducing the intensity by 45%, and ultimately includes Achieving net zero emissions by 2070.
Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to the important role of Prime Minister Modi at the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in November 2021. The climate action plan, known as the ‘Five Elements’, includes a commitment to net-zero emissions by 2070 and a focus on sustainable lifestyles.
Under the leadership of PM Modi, India has been actively involved in global initiatives such as Mission Innovation (MI) and the International Solar Alliance, both established at COP21 in 2015. India played an important role as a founding member of Mission Innovation, which was intended to be a global initiative. On accelerating the clean energy revolution and aligning with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
India’s proactive stance against climate change is further illustrated by its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which aim to reduce emissions intensity by 33-35% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels. India’s rapid transition to renewable energy sources, including achieving 40% of energy production from renewable sources, demonstrates its commitment to clean energy.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s growing focus on hydrogen energy, with the launch of the National Hydrogen Energy Mission and efforts to produce cost-competitive green hydrogen. He also mentioned the country’s roadmap for a bio-based economy, emphasizing the role of sustainable biofuels in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Additionally, India has developed a Cooling Action Plan (CAP) aimed at reducing cooling demand while maintaining energy efficiency. The Union Minister noted India’s progress in nuclear power generation with plans to achieve 20 GW of capacity by 2030, making it the third largest producer of nuclear power globally. India is also exploring the potential of the Blue Economy to promote sustainable economic growth while addressing issues such as plastic pollution in the oceans.
Dr. Jitender Singh highlighted the importance of National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill 2023 passed by Parliament, which will promote research and innovation in academic institutions and research institutes. This initiative will further promote clean energy research and align with Mission Innovation objectives.
First Published: 29 Sep 2023, 08:12 IST