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Climate Change and India: Impact, Mitigation & Panchamrit Goals

Introduction

Climate Change is not a future event; it is happening now. For India, it is an existential threat due to its long coastline, monsoon dependence, and large Himalayan cryosphere.

1. Critical Impacts

• Melting Glaciers: Himalayan glaciers (Third Pole) are retreating, threatening perennial rivers.
• Sea Level Rise: Threatens coastal cities like Mumbai and Chennai.
• Agriculture: Erratic monsoon and heatwaves reduce crop yields (Wheat sensitivity to heat).

2. Steps Taken: NAPCC

The National Action Plan on Climate Change (2008) has 8 missions, including National Solar Mission and National Mission for Sustainable Habitat.

3. Panchamrit (CoP 26, Glasgow)

PM Modi announced 5 nectar elements:

1. Reach 500GW non-fossil energy capacity by 2030.
2. 50% of energy requirements from renewable energy by 2030.
3. Reduce total projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes.
4. Reduce carbon intensity of economy by 45%.
5. Net Zero by 2070.

Conclusion

Climate Justice requires developed nations to pay for historical pollution, but India is taking pro-active leadership for a sustainable future.