🌍 Introduction
India, with its vast geography and diverse ecosystems, faces unique challenges in combating climate change. The impacts are already evident: from erratic monsoons affecting agriculture to rising sea levels threatening coastal cities. Recognizing these threats, India has embarked on a journey to develop a robust legal framework aimed at mitigating climate change and promoting sustainable development.
📜 Legal Framework for Climate Change in India
1. National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)
Launched in 2008, the NAPCC outlines India’s strategy to address climate change through eight national missions:
- National Solar Mission: Promotes the use of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
- National Mission on Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Encourages energy efficiency across various sectors.
- National Mission on Sustainable Habitat: Focuses on urban planning and waste management.
- National Water Mission: Aims to conserve water resources.
- National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem: Protects the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
- National Mission for a Green India: Enhances forest and tree cover.
- National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture: Promotes climate-resilient agricultural practices.
- National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change: Builds capacity and awareness.
These missions serve as a comprehensive approach to addressing climate change challenges.
2. The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
This Act provides a framework for the protection and improvement of the environment. It empowers the central government to take measures to protect and improve environmental quality, control and reduce pollution from various sources, and ensure sustainable development.
3. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) Act, 2010
The NGT was established to handle environmental disputes and provide speedy justice. It has the authority to hear cases related to environmental protection, conservation of forests, and other natural resources. The NGT plays a crucial role in enforcing environmental laws and ensuring accountability.
4. The Energy Conservation Act, 2001
This Act promotes energy efficiency and conservation in various sectors, including industry, transportation, and buildings. It establishes the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) to implement policies and programs aimed at reducing energy consumption.
🌱 Mitigation Strategies and Initiatives
1. National Solar Mission
India’s commitment to renewable energy is evident through the National Solar Mission, which aims to achieve 100 GW of solar capacity by 2022. This initiative has led to significant investments in solar energy infrastructure and has positioned India as a global leader in solar power generation.
2. Promotion of Electric Vehicles (EVs)
To reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, India is promoting the adoption of electric vehicles. The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme provides incentives for the purchase of EVs and the establishment of charging infrastructure.
3. Afforestation and Reforestation Programs
Forests play a vital role in sequestering carbon dioxide. India has launched several afforestation and reforestation programs to increase forest cover and enhance carbon sinks. The Green India Mission, under the NAPCC, aims to increase forest and tree cover to mitigate climate change impacts.
4. Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture
Agriculture is both a source of emissions and vulnerable to climate change. India is promoting sustainable agricultural practices, such as organic farming and agroforestry, to reduce emissions and enhance resilience to climate impacts. The National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture focuses on promoting climate-resilient farming practices.
🏙️ Urban Initiatives and Local Actions
1. Mumbai Climate Action Plan
Mumbai, one of India’s most populous cities, has developed a Climate Action Plan to address urban climate challenges. The plan focuses on areas such as sustainable waste management, urban greening, flood resilience, and energy efficiency. It aims to make Mumbai a climate-resilient city by 2050.
2. Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Climate Budget
The BMC has allocated significant funds towards climate-related initiatives. In the financial year 2025-26, the BMC allocated Rs 16,321.33 crore—37.81% of its capital budget—towards climate-focused projects. These projects include rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment, and renewable energy installations.
3. Community-Led Climate Action
Across India, communities are taking proactive steps to combat climate change. From local tree plantation drives to waste segregation initiatives, community-led actions are playing a crucial role in building climate resilience. These grassroots efforts complement national policies and contribute to sustainable development.
📊 Real-Life Case Studies
1. Punjab’s Heatwave Challenge
Between 2010 and 2023, Punjab experienced 128 heatwave days, highlighting the region’s growing vulnerability to climate change. A report titled “Pathways to Net Zero in Punjab” emphasizes the urgent need to address short-lived climate forcers like black carbon and methane. The report recommends interventions such as electrifying transport and reducing methane emissions from agriculture.
2. Ambikapur’s Waste Management Success
Ambikapur, a city in Chhattisgarh, has implemented an effective waste management system. The city segregates and processes 90% of its waste, converting landfill sites into parks. This initiative has not only improved sanitation but also contributed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How can citizens contribute to climate change mitigation?
Citizens can contribute by adopting sustainable practices such as reducing energy consumption, using public transport, recycling