Approval of Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 2031–2035: Emissions Cut, Clean Energy Push & Climate Leadership

The Union Cabinet approved India’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for the 2031–2035 period under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

• The announcement comes amid disruptions in global supply chains and energy markets due to ongoing conflict in West Asia, underscoring the risks of fossil fuel dependence.

About Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)

• NDCs are country-level pledges made under the Paris Agreement (2015) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and regulate fossil fuel consumption in order to limit global warming to well below 2°C, and preferably to 1.5°C, above pre-industrial levels.
• Update Rule: Countries are required to update their NDCs every five years.

Approach to Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) (2031–35)

• Guiding Principles: In shaping India’s NDC for 2031–2035, the Government has considered the outcomes of the first Global Stocktake (GST), principle of Common but differentiated responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC), in alignment with the Paris Agreement.
• Consultative Framework: India’s successive climate commitments are the outcome of wide-ranging stakeholder consultations and studies by the ten working groups in NITI Aayog. 
• Sectoral Coverage: Sector-specific inputs were carefully assessed across energy, industry, transport, agriculture, water, and urban development, ensuring that the revised targets are ambitious, achievable, and grounded in domestic capabilities
• Whole-of-Government Approach: The NDC adopts a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, integrating climate goals with development priorities.
• Inclusive Policymaking: The process reflects a commitment to participatory and transparent policymaking while safeguarding livelihoods, growth, and energy and food security.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

About Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Framework (2031–2035)

Under the New Framework, India has pledged to

• Emission Intensity: Cut emissions intensity of GDP by 47% by 2035 (from 2005 levels)
• Reducing Dependence over Non-Fossil sources: Achieve 60% of installed power capacity from non-fossil sources
• Carbon Sink: Create a carbon sink of 3.5–4 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent through forests and tree cover

Achievements of India in Climate Action

• Reduction in Emissions Intensity: India has reduced its emissions intensity by 36% (2005–2020) and enhanced the target to 47% reduction by 2035.
• Expansion of Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity: Achieved 52.57% non-fossil fuel-based installed power capacity (Feb 2026), meeting the target five years ahead of schedule; new target set at 60% by 2035.
• Carbon Sink Creation: Already created 2.29 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent carbon sink by 2021 through forest and tree cover.
• Enhanced Carbon Sink Target: Target increased to 3.5–4.0 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent by 2035 (from 2005 levels).
• Global Recognition: Recognised by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)—ranked 3rd in net gain in forest area and 9th in total forest area globally.
• Balancing Growth and Sustainability: Demonstrates a balance between economic growth and ecological conservation alongside a high GDP growth rate.
• Proven Track Record: Consistent achievement of climate targets ahead of time, reflecting strong commitment and capacity to meet future climate goals.

Significance

• Vision of Vikshit Bharat: India’s NDC for 2031-35 is guided by the vision of Viksit Bharat, which is not just a goal for 2047, but a commitment to act today to build a prosperous, and climate resilient Bharat for the future generations.
• Opportunities for Youth and Women: Climate commitments are expected to generate new opportunities for youth and women in the green transition.
• Sustainable Growth Model: India demonstrates that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand through policy, innovation, and participation.
• Milestone Achievement: The Cabinet approval of NDC (2031–35) marks a major step towards a low-carbon, climate-resilient future and strengthens India’s global climate leadership.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books

Visit PW Store

DOWNLOAD PDF