Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing the planet today. Countries across the world are trying to cut pollution, protect nature, and shift towards cleaner sources of energy. India’s new climate goals for 2031–2035 are part of this global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build a greener future. The Indian government has now outlined fresh targets that aim to lower pollution, expand clean power, and strengthen forests while continuing economic growth. The new plan was approved by the Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will be shared with the United Nations under the Paris Agreement, the global treaty that guides international climate action.
India’s big climate goals: New targets to reduce pollution, grow clean energy, and protect forests:
Cutting pollution
India plans to reduce emissions intensity by 47% by 2035 compared to 2005 levels.
What does this mean?
This means India aims to produce less pollution for every unit of economic growth, allowing the country to grow while lowering its environmental impact.
Expanding clean power
India has set a goal that 60% of its electricity will come from clean energy sources by 2035.
Clean energy sources include:
- Solar power
- Wind power
- Hydropower
- Nuclear energy
The country plans to reduce dependence on coal and increase electricity from renewable and low-carbon energy sources.
Growing forests
India plans to expand and protect forests so that they can absorb 3.5–4 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. Forests act as natural carbon sinks, helping remove greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.
Additional goals in the plan
The climate strategy also includes broader steps to strengthen environmental protection and community resilience:
- Promote eco-friendly lifestyles among citizens
- Build climate-resilient infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather
- Protect people’s livelihoods, especially those affected by climate change
What is the Paris Agreement?
The Paris Agreement is a global climate treaty adopted in 2015 in Paris, France, during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21). Countries that signed the agreement promised to work together to limit global warming and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Each country sets its own targets and reports progress regularly to the United Nations.
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