India Achieved COP-21 Climate Goals Ahead of Schedule, Solar Capacity Rose from 2 to 160 GW: PM

Addressing an international conference themed "Future of Environment and Climate Dynamics," the Prime Minister shared details regarding India's progress toward environmental and climate protection. On this occasion, he congratulated the officials of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and stated that India is providing solutions to climate challenges through a combination of its cultural experiences and a modern vision.

Regarding carbon emissions, the Prime Minister clarified that India's per capita carbon emission contribution is less than half of the global average, while it is six times higher in developed countries compared to India. He noted that India is the only G20 nation to have fulfilled all its commitments made during the COP-21 summit in Paris ahead of schedule.

Highlighting achievements in the field of renewable energy, the Prime Minister mentioned that India's solar energy capacity has increased from 2 GW to over 160 GW over the last 12 years. He referenced the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, under which rooftop solar panels have been installed in more than 5 million homes, with the government providing assistance of approximately 80,000 rupees per household. Additionally, solar pumps have been installed in the fields of 3 million farmers through the KUSUM scheme. According to the Prime Minister, India has successfully prevented nearly 200 million tonnes of carbon emissions through solar energy alone.

Discussing clean mobility, the Prime Minister stated that India's first and the world's longest hydrogen train has been launched. He revealed that before 2014, EV sales in the country were fewer than 3,000, which rose to approximately 2.5 million last year. Furthermore, the country's metro network has expanded from 250 kilometers to over 1,000 kilometers, operating in more than 20 cities. The near 100% electrification of railways and the inauguration of a 3,000-kilometer-long Dedicated Freight Corridor have also contributed to environmental conservation.

In the areas of water conservation and agriculture, the Prime Minister mentioned the construction of more than 70,000 Amrit Sarovars and 15 million water harvesting structures under the 'Catch the Rain' campaign. He explained that promoting the production and export of 'Shree Anna' (millets) is saving water, which led to 2023 being celebrated as the 'International Year of Millets.' Under the National Mission on Natural Farming, 24,000 clusters have been created across 1.25 million hectares, and 3,000 varieties of climate-resilient crops have been developed.

The Prime Minister further stated that India's 'very dense forest cover' has increased by more than 22% in the last 12 years, and millions of trees have been planted under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign. To tackle the challenge of plastic waste, a ban on single-use plastic has been implemented, and a 'waste to wealth' model is being adopted through the GOBAR-dhan scheme.