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Prime Minister's address at G20 Summit session II: Climate Change and Environment

October 31, 2021

Excellencies,

Today, when I am amid the G-20 countries on the issue of climate action, I want to present my point with full sensitivity towards my two major responsibilities. The first responsibility is of Climate Mitigation, which is inspired by thousands of years old Indian tradition. We are moving ahead with ambitious goals on this issue. When we announced our goals in Paris, many asked whether India would be able to achieve something like 175 GW of renewable energy. But India is not only achieving these goals rapidly but is also working to set higher targets. Going beyond its Paris commitments, India has set a target of rehabilitation of 26 million hectares wastelands. Indian Railways, the world's largest passenger carrier serving an average of 8 billion passengers every year, has resolved to 'Net Zero by 2030'. With this decision, Indian Railways will mitigate carbon emission by 60 million tons per annum. We are working on the target of 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025. By increasing the count of Asiatic Lions, Tigers, Rhinos, and Dolphins, India has proved that our commitment to protect the environment is not limited only to the energy debate. India has never retreated from the responsibility of Mitigation, nor will it ever go back. Due to the efforts made over the years, today India is one of the top 5 countries in the world, in terms of renewable energy capacity. The world also recognizes this success of India. Countries like USA, France, UK, and Sweden are also our partners in many of our initiatives like ISA and CDRI.

Excellencies,


When I think of my second responsibility- Climate Justice, there is also a pain in my heart. By forgetting Climate Justice, we are not only doing injustice to the developing countries, but we are betraying the entire humanity. As a vocal voice of developing countries, India cannot ignore the neglect of climate finance by the developed countries. Without concrete progress on climate finance, pressuring the developing countries for climate action is unjust. I suggest that the developed countries must aim to make at least 1 per cent of their GDP available to finance green projects in developing countries.

Excellencies,

I would like to present three actionable points in front of G-20 partners. First, G-20 countries must create a 'clean energy projects fund', which can be used in countries where peaking has not happened yet. This fund can also support other institutions like ISA. Secondly, we must create a network of research institutions working on clean-energy in G20 countries which will work on new technologies as well as their deployment related best practices. Thirdly, G20 countries must create an institution to create global standards in the field of green hydrogen to encourage its production and use. India will also contribute fully to all these efforts.

Thank you.

DISCLAIMER: This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered in Hindi.


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