Evolution and Essentials of India’s Climate Policy
GS-2 or GS-3 Mains
Short Notes or Revision Notes
Question : Examine the role of the Supreme Court of India in shaping India’s climate policy, particularly in recognizing the right to a healthy environment as a fundamental human right.
Context
- India’s climate policy has significantly evolved, reflecting its commitment to addressing climate challenges.
Evolution of India’s Climate Policy
- Focuses on synergies between development and climate outcomes.
- Consistent and coordinated approach since the Rio Summit of 1992.
- Rio Summit led to the emergence of:
- United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
- Forest Principles
- India championed the CBDR-RC principle (Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities) at the Rio Summit.
- Argues developed countries caused the problem through resource overexploitation.
Consumption by Developed Countries
- High-income countries with 16% of the world’s population are responsible for 74% of excess resource use.
- The US, EU, and other wealthy nations contribute significantly to resource overuse.
- India remains within its sustainability limits, unlike developed countries and China.
Major Determinants of India’s Climate Policy
- Geography:
- India has 2.4% of the world’s land area and 4% of freshwater resources.
- It’s the 7th largest country with rich biodiversity (17 mega-biodiverse countries).
- Population:
- 4 billion people, nearly one-sixth of humanity.
- 7-8% of the world’s recorded species.
- Low human to land ratio (0.0021 sq km) and decreasing.
- Impacts:
- Ranked 5th most affected country by extreme weather events (Global Climate Risk Index 2020).
- World Bank predicts climate change could cost India 2.8% of GDP by 2050.
- Worldview:
- Shaped by living in harmony with nature (e.g., Prithvi Sukta, sacred groves).
- Gandhian ideals of sustainability and environmental protection.
- Actions:
- Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) logo reflects reverence for nature.
- Low historical cumulative emissions (less than 4%) and low per capita emissions (1.9 tonnes CO2).
- Proactive domestic and international actions despite low historical contribution.
Role of Supreme Court in Climate Policy
- Recognized the link between ecology, human dignity, and climate change.
- Defined the right to a healthy environment as a fundamental human right.
- Linked the right against climate change to Articles 21 (right to life) and 14 (right to equality).
- Highlighted the interconnection between climate change and various human rights.
Conclusion
- India’s climate policy focuses on inclusive growth, poverty eradication, and sustainable development.
- It adheres to UNFCCC principles and promotes climate-friendly lifestyles.
- India has created international institutions like ISA (renewable energy), CDRI (disaster resilience), and GBA (biofuels).
- As the world tackles climate change, India’s climate policy will continue to evolve for a sustainable future