India's Green Milestone: Achieving Climate Targets and Advancing Green Growth
Key Ideas
- India is the sole G20 country to achieve its climate change target ahead of schedule, reducing emissions intensity by 33% between 2005 and 2019.
- The nation surpassed its renewable energy targets set for 2030 in 2021-22, including the 20% ethanol blending in petrol, paving the way for green growth.
- The government launched the National Hydrogen Mission with an initial outlay of Rs 19,500 crore to produce 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually and create green jobs.
- Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of promoting and expanding the green job sector to address climate concerns and provide employment opportunities for the youth.
On the 78th Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India's pioneering achievements in climate action and green growth. India has outperformed other G20 nations by meeting its climate change target before the deadline, reducing emissions intensity by 33% from 2005 to 2019. The country has also exceeded its renewable energy targets, accomplishing 20% ethanol blending in petrol five years ahead of the 2030 schedule. Initiatives like the National Hydrogen Mission, aiming to produce 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually, demonstrate India's commitment to sustainable energy. The mission, with an initial budget of Rs 19,500 crore, prioritizes enhancing green hydrogen production and promoting electrolyser manufacturing. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the potential of green jobs in driving green growth, addressing climate change, and creating employment opportunities for the youth in the future.