India to Cut Emission Intensity by 47%
NDC for 2031-35 approved; push for clean energy, carbon sink and net-zero pathway
- Cabinet approves India’s updated climate targets (NDC)
- Emission intensity to be cut by 47% by 2035
- 60% power capacity to come from non-fossil sources
- Carbon sink target raised to 3.5–4 billion tonnes
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 26th March: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved India’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for the period 2031–2035, strengthening the country’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.
As part of the revised targets, India has committed to reducing the emissions intensity of its GDP by 47% from 2005 levels by 2035. The country will also aim to achieve 60% of its installed electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources within the same timeframe.
Additionally, India has set an ambitious goal of creating a carbon sink of 3.5 to 4 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent through forest and tree cover by 2035, further strengthening its climate resilience strategy.
The government said these targets are aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 and India’s long-term commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
Officials highlighted that India has already made substantial progress, achieving earlier climate targets ahead of schedule, including reaching over 52% non-fossil fuel capacity and reducing emissions intensity by 36% between 2005 and 2020.
The new roadmap focuses on expanding renewable energy, strengthening green infrastructure, promoting clean manufacturing and accelerating innovations in areas such as green hydrogen, battery storage and carbon capture technologies.
The framework also emphasises climate adaptation measures, including coastal protection, disaster resilience, sustainable agriculture and infrastructure development in vulnerable regions.
India’s climate strategy is being implemented through the National Action Plan on Climate Change and various central and state-level schemes, ensuring a coordinated approach towards sustainable development.
The Cabinet said the updated NDC reflects India’s commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility, positioning the country as a key global player in climate action.
