Question

Explain India's stand on the issue of Environment.

Hint:

The key phrase for India's environmental policy is "common but differentiated responsibilities". This single phrase effectively summarises India's entire argument on the global stage.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
India's stand on environmental issues, particularly climate change, is guided by the principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities' (CBDR-RC). This means that while all countries share a common responsibility to protect the environment, the historical contribution to the problem and the current capabilities of developed and developing nations are different.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
India's stand on the environment has the following key components:
1. Historical Responsibility of Developed Nations: India argues that the developed countries of the Global North are historically responsible for the vast majority of greenhouse gas emissions that have caused global warming, as they have been industrializing for over a century. Therefore, they should take the lead in reducing emissions and bear a greater share of the burden.
2. The Right to Development: India maintains that its foremost priority is the economic and social development of its people and poverty eradication. It argues that developing countries should not be forced to compromise their development needs for the sake of environmental protection. Any international environmental regime must allow sufficient space for the growth of developing countries.
3. Proactive Domestic Action: Despite this stand, India is not a passive actor. It has ratified the Paris Agreement and is one of the world's leaders in expanding renewable energy (especially solar, through the International Solar Alliance). It is taking significant steps towards energy efficiency, increasing forest cover, and promoting sustainable lifestyles, demonstrating its commitment to climate action.
Step 3: Final Answer:
India's stand is that developed countries, being historically responsible for climate change, should lead in emission cuts and provide financial and technological support. Simultaneously, India asserts its right to develop while also taking significant voluntary steps to protect the environment and promote renewable energy.