India Tops Global Rise in Greenhouse Gas Emissions in 2023–24: UNEP Report

India recorded the “”highest increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions worldwide during 2023–24″”, according to the “”United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Emissions Gap Report 2025″”. Despite maintaining the “”lowest per capita emissions”” among major economies, India added “”165 million tonnes”” of GHGs in the past year, a trend that may draw scrutiny during the upcoming “”COP30 climate summit”” in Belém, Brazil.

India’s Rising Emissions Amid Global Concerns

The UNEP report, titled “Off Target”, highlights India’s position as the “”global leader in annual emission increases””, followed by China and Russia. On a percentage scale, Indonesia recorded the sharpest rise. While India’s overall contribution remains low in per capita terms, its total emissions growth reflects the challenge of balancing economic development with sustainability goals. The report estimates that global emissions trends are putting the planet on a path toward “”2.8°C of warming”” by the end of this century, far above the “”1.5°C Paris Agreement target””.

Missed Deadlines and Policy Pressure

The report also points out India’s “”failure to submit its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0)”” by the September 30, 2025 deadline. NDCs represent countries’ climate action plans under the Paris Agreement. Only one-third of signatories, covering around 63% of global emissions, met the submission requirement. India’s delay, combined with its rising emission levels, could invite diplomatic pressure during COP30, where nations are expected to showcase progress toward carbon reduction commitments.

Expert Reactions and Climate Finance Debate

Climate experts have termed the findings a wake-up call for India. “”Harjeet Singh””, founding director of the Satat Sampada Climate Foundation, said India remains trapped in a “climate justice dilemma” — maintaining low per capita emissions while facing criticism for rising totals. He emphasised the “”failure of international climate finance””, arguing that developing nations are being asked to decarbonise without adequate financial or technological support.
“”Anjal Prakash”” of the Indian School of Business added that India needs “rapid deployment of renewables, faster coal phase-down, and stronger methane control,” while also requiring predictable global finance to maintain a fair transition without sacrificing growth.

Exam Oriented Facts

• India recorded the world’s largest absolute rise in GHG emissions (165 million tonnes) in 2023–24.
• The UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2025 projects a 2.8°C global temperature rise by 2100.
• India missed the September 30, 2025 deadline to submit its updated NDC (climate action plan).
• Global emissions increased in all G20 nations except the European Union.

Balancing Growth and Climate Responsibility

Experts stress that India’s emissions growth mirrors its expanding energy demand and developmental imperatives. While renewable energy adoption is accelerating, fossil fuels continue to play a critical role in meeting domestic needs. The UNEP report urges India to couple economic growth with decisive climate policy, positioning itself as a model for equitable and sustainable development as global leaders gather at “”COP30 in Belém”” to address the deepening climate crisis.