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15 January 2026|The Indian Express
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Environment & EcologyInternational RelationsEDITORIAL

India and China's Climate Action: A Fair Share Analysis

India and China are exceeding climate expectations, challenging Western narratives.

Background Context

The historical context of climate action is rooted in the late 20th century, with growing scientific consensus on anthropogenic climate change. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), established in 1988, played a crucial role in consolidating this knowledge. The 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) formalized international cooperation, establishing the principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities,' acknowledging varying capabilities and historical contributions to climate change among nations. The Kyoto Protocol in 1997 further operationalized this principle by setting binding emission reduction targets for developed countries, recognizing their historical responsibility. This framework shaped the initial landscape of climate negotiations, influencing the subsequent actions and commitments of nations like India and China.

The article discusses the climate actions of India and China, arguing that they are doing their fair share in addressing climate change, contrary to some Western narratives. It highlights that both countries have over-achieved their commitments and are investing heavily in renewable energy. The author points out that while developed nations often criticize India and China, their own historical emissions and current per capita emissions are significantly higher. The piece emphasizes the need for a balanced perspective, acknowledging the progress made by India and China while also recognizing the scale of the challenge ahead. The article suggests that focusing on collaborative solutions and technology transfer, rather than criticism, would be more effective in tackling global climate change.

Key Facts

1

India and China are investing heavily in renewable energy

2

Developed nations have higher historical and per capita emissions

Latest Developments

Recent developments in climate action involve a shift towards more ambitious nationally determined contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. India, for example, has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and has significantly increased its renewable energy targets. China has also pledged to peak emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. A key trend is the increasing investment in renewable energy infrastructure, particularly solar and wind power, in both countries. Furthermore, there's a growing focus on green hydrogen and carbon capture technologies. Future outlook involves enhanced international cooperation on technology transfer and climate finance, as well as the development of more stringent climate policies at the national level to meet the ambitious goals set forth in the Paris Agreement.

Editorial Analysis

The author argues that India and China are unfairly criticized for their climate actions, while they are actually making significant progress and investments in renewable energy. The author emphasizes the need for a balanced perspective, acknowledging the progress made by India and China while also recognizing the scale of the challenge ahead.

Main Arguments:

  1. India and China have over-achieved their climate commitments, demonstrating a serious effort to address climate change. This challenges the narrative that they are not doing enough.
  2. Both countries are investing heavily in renewable energy, driving down costs and making clean energy more accessible globally. This investment is crucial for a global transition to a low-carbon economy.
  3. Developed nations have higher historical emissions and current per capita emissions, indicating a greater responsibility to lead in climate action. This highlights the need for developed countries to do more.
  4. Focusing on collaborative solutions and technology transfer, rather than criticism, would be more effective in tackling global climate change. This approach fosters cooperation and accelerates progress.

Conclusion

The article concludes by emphasizing the need for a balanced perspective on India and China's climate actions, acknowledging their progress and promoting collaborative solutions for global climate change.

3 Key Concepts to Understand

This article covers important concepts like Climate Change, Renewable Energy and 1 more. Understanding these will help you answer exam questions better.

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