Climate Action Is Opportunity for Inclusive Growth: Vice-President

Vice-President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan said climate action should be seen not as a constraint on development but as a strategic opportunity to accelerate inclusive growth, strengthen energy security, and build a future-ready economy. He was delivering the inaugural address at the Bharat Climate Forum 2026 in New Delhi.

Climate Action Rooted in Civilisational Ethos

Commending the Council for International Economic Understanding for shaping the Forum into a national platform for meaningful dialogue, the Vice-President said India’s engagement with climate and sustainability is deeply rooted in its civilisational traditions. Long before sustainability became a modern concern, Indian practices emphasised harmony between humans and nature through water conservation, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity protection, and ethical principles such as Prakriti and Aparigraha.

Balancing Development and Responsibility

Highlighting India’s development trajectory over the past decade, the Vice-President said the country has consistently pursued a balance between growth and equity, and between present needs and future responsibility. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has redefined how a developing nation approaches climate responsibility while safeguarding development priorities.

Panchamrit Commitments and Clean Technology Push

Referring to India’s Panchamrit commitments announced at COP26, the Vice-President said these goals provide a clear pathway towards a low-carbon future, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. He stressed that a developed India cannot rely solely on imported technologies or fragile supply chains, calling for homegrown clean technologies, resilient manufacturing, and a future-ready workforce. India, he noted, is emerging as a global manufacturing hub for renewable energy, energy storage, green hydrogen, electric mobility, sustainable materials, climate-smart agriculture, and digital climate solutions.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Panchamrit commitments were announced by India at COP26.
• India has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
• The International Solar Alliance was initiated by India.
• The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure focuses on climate-resilient infrastructure.

Global Cooperation and Climate Leadership

Emphasising global cooperation, the Vice-President said climate change is a shared challenge requiring collective action. As a founding force behind the International Solar Alliance, India has mobilised Global South countries around affordable solar solutions. Its leadership of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, he added, reflects a forward-looking approach to protecting infrastructure from climate-induced shocks. The event was attended by senior policymakers, industry leaders, and experts, including former Rajya Sabha MP N. K. Singh and former Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi.