Is India a Signatory to the Paris Agreement?
The Paris Agreement is a landmark agreement on climate change, adopted by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2015. The agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
India, as a major developing country and one of the world`s largest emitters of greenhouse gases, has played a crucial role in the negotiations leading up to the Paris Agreement. But is India a signatory to the agreement?
The short answer is yes. India signed the Paris Agreement on April 22, 2016, along with over 190 other countries. This was a significant step for India, which had previously been seen as a reluctant participant in global climate talks.
By signing the Paris Agreement, India committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions intensity of its GDP by 33-35% below 2005 levels by 2030, and to increase the share of non-fossil fuel-based power capacity to 40% by 2030.
India`s decision to sign the Paris Agreement was driven by several factors. First, the country recognizes the threat of climate change and the need for global action to address it. Second, India sees an opportunity to transition to a more sustainable and low-carbon economy, which could bring economic benefits in the long term. Finally, India is keen to play a leadership role in the global fight against climate change, particularly among developing countries.
However, while India has signed the Paris Agreement, it has yet to ratify it. Ratification entails formal approval by the country`s legislative institutions, which in India`s case is the Parliament. As of now, India has not completed this process, although it has indicated that it intends to do so.
Despite not yet ratifying the agreement, India has continued to take steps to address climate change, both domestically and internationally. The country has launched several initiatives to increase the use of renewable energy and improve energy efficiency, and has taken active part in global climate talks and other negotiations.
In conclusion, while India has signed the Paris Agreement, it has yet to ratify it. However, this does not undermine the country`s commitment to taking action on climate change. India has demonstrated its willingness to engage in global efforts to address this critical issue, and its efforts will be crucial in achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and ensuring a sustainable future for all.