India has made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint, achieving a 7.93% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2020 compared to 2019, according to the country’s 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This reduction reflects India’s growing commitment to sustainable development and its ambitious target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, as announced at the COP26 summit. The country’s efforts are in line with the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global temperature rise to well below 2°C. 

The energy sector remains India’s largest contributor to emissions, accounting for 75.66% of the total GHG emissions. However, India continues to balance its developmental priorities with the urgent need for climate action. Although India houses 17% of the world’s population, it contributes only about 4% of global GHG emissions since 1850, highlighting the country’s relatively low per capita emissions. 

India’s climate action strategy includes the Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS), which focuses on critical areas like low-carbon electricity systems, efficient transport networks, and decoupling economic growth from emissions. To complement these efforts, India is committed to increasing forest cover and boosting vegetation to reduce CO2 levels in the atmosphere. 

In addition to large-scale green initiatives, India has launched programs like the Green Credit Program (2023) and the National Afforestation Programme (NAP), which focus on afforestation and reforestation. The Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) is also working to restore vital coastal ecosystems, including mangroves and coral reefs, to enhance climate resilience. 

India has also embraced innovative environmental solutions, such as the Miyawaki technique, which involves dense tree planting to create green spaces. These efforts are integrated into the country’s major urban development programs, like the Smart Cities Mission and Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana. 

These initiatives underscore India’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint while fostering economic growth. By integrating sustainability into its development plans, India is on a clear path toward achieving its carbon neutrality goals and building a more resilient and environmentally conscious future. 

Sources: 

https://solarquarter.com/2025/01/13/indias-path-to-carbon-neutrality-a-7-93-reduction-in-ghg-emissions-and-commitment-to-sustainable-growth/ 

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2092311#:~:text=In%20response%2C%20India%20pledged%20to,sustainable%2C%20climate%2Dresilient%20future. 

https://observervoice.com/indias-commitment-to-climate-action-and-sustainability-7-93-drop-in-ghg-emissions-88052/ 

https://www.world-energy.org/article/48581.html