India Reaffirms Climate Equity and Global Solidarity at G20 in South Africa

Opening his address, Shri Yadav extended heartfelt gratitude to the Republic of South Africa for its leadership in advancing a people-centered and sustainable vision for the planet.

Reinforcing India’s commitment to global climate action anchored in fairness and inclusivity, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, delivered India’s national statement at the G20 Climate and Environmental Sustainability Working Group Ministerial Meeting, held in Cape Town, South Africa. The event, convened under the South African G20 Presidency, centered around the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.”

Opening his address, Shri Yadav extended heartfelt gratitude to the Republic of South Africa for its leadership in advancing a people-centered and sustainable vision for the planet. He called upon the delegates to work collectively toward “a world united in purpose, equal in rights and resources, and committed to the planet.”

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A Decade of the Paris Agreement: From Commitments to Achievements

Highlighting the global milestone of the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, Shri Yadav noted that this decade has seen unprecedented cooperation among nations in setting and implementing Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

“India takes pride in being among the few countries to have achieved — and even surpassed — its NDC targets ahead of schedule,” he said, pointing to India’s success in expanding renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and fostering sustainable urban and industrial growth.

The Minister reaffirmed that India remains a solution-driven nation, advancing its climate agenda through action-oriented policies such as the National Green Hydrogen Mission, the International Solar Alliance (ISA), and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

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Bridging the Gap Between Ambition and Implementation

Calling on the G20 nations to serve as a bridge between ambition and implementation, Shri Yadav emphasized that while climate ambition has grown, the corresponding support for developing countries — particularly in finance and technology — remains inadequate.

He reaffirmed the principle of “Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC)”, noting that climate finance must be treated as a duty, not a mere promise.

“Finance to developing countries to meet vital environmental challenges must be honoured as an onerous duty rather than a mere commitment — because equality is not a privilege, it is a right,” he stated.

He urged developed countries to fulfill their commitments for climate finance, capacity-building, and technology transfer, ensuring that the transition to a low-carbon economy remains just and inclusive.

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Integrating Traditional Wisdom with Futuristic Technology

Drawing inspiration from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision, Shri Yadav reminded the gathering of the importance of going “back to the basics” while simultaneously marching “towards the future.” He stressed that ecosystem-based solutions and modern technologies must converge to create sustainable pathways for development.

“India believes that knowledge sharing, capacity building, co-development of green technologies, and their equitable transfer will be central to achieving sustainability,” he said.

The Minister also highlighted India’s pioneering global initiatives, including the LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) movement — an effort to promote environmentally conscious choices at the individual and community level.

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A Call for a Whole-of-Society Approach

Shri Yadav advocated for a whole-of-society approach, urging all stakeholders — from policymakers to businesses and individuals — to act as co-creators of a sustainable future. He underscored that meaningful change must emerge from the collective will of societies embracing pro-planet lifestyles and consumption patterns.

He also commended South Africa’s people-centric, holistic, and collaborative approach to environmental sustainability, affirming India’s full support for its leadership in driving constructive multilateral outcomes.

“We sincerely appreciate and fully support the South African Presidency’s integrated and collaborative vision. Only through collective resolve can we ensure meaningful and tangible outcomes,” Shri Yadav concluded.

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India’s Role in Global Climate Leadership

India’s proactive stance at the G20 meeting reflects its broader role as a global leader in sustainable development and climate diplomacy. The country has:

• Achieved over 40% of its installed energy capacity from non-fossil fuel sources.

• Launched major missions on green hydrogen, biofuels, and circular economy.

• Promoted nature-based solutions for land restoration and biodiversity conservation.

• Advanced international cooperation through ISA, CDRI, and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

Through these efforts, India continues to champion a development model that harmonizes economic growth with environmental stewardship, offering a replicable blueprint for other developing nations.