India’s Climate Finance and Adaptation Strategies

India has received substantial funding for climate projects through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. As of now, the country has secured USD 1.16 billion. This includes contributions from various international funds. The Green Climate Fund provided USD 803.9 million. The Global Environment Facility contributed USD 346.52 million. Additionally, the Adaptation Fund offered USD 16.86 million. However, most climate actions in India are financed through domestic resources.

Government Initiatives for Climate Adaptation

The Government of India is actively pursuing adaptation and resilience strategies. Several policies have been implemented across key economic sectors. The National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture is one such initiative aimed at addressing climate impacts on agriculture. The government acknowledges that without adaptation measures, crop yields may suffer . Recent Union Budgets have focused on mobilising resources for climate action, with specific emphasis on greening the economy.

Recent Budget Measures for Climate Action

The 2025-26 budget introduced measures to enhance resilience against climate change. Key initiatives include the PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and the National Mission on High Yielding Seeds. A six-year Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses has also been launched. Additionally, there is a comprehensive programme for vegetables and fruits. These measures aim to establish a framework for sustainable fisheries in exclusive economic zones and high seas.

International Climate Finance Landscape

Developed nations are historically responsible for the majority of greenhouse gas emissions. Under the UNFCCC, they are required to support developing countries with finance and technology. In 2009, they pledged to provide USD 100 billion annually by 2020. This target was only met in 2020, primarily through loans. At a recent UN climate conference, developed countries offered USD 300 billion for climate action by 2035. India deemed this amount insufficient and termed it “paltry”.

Domestic Resources as a Climate Solution

Given the inadequate international support, India’s Chief Economic Advisor emphasised the importance of domestic resources for climate action. The government is preparing for the next round of Nationally Determined Contributions for the 2031-2035 period. The Economic Survey brought into light that the lack of funding from developed countries might lead developing nations to reconsider their climate targets.

Integration of Climate Actions in National Policies

India’s climate actions are embedded in various national programmes. The National Action Plan on Climate Change serves as the overarching framework. This integration ensures that climate considerations are part of broader developmental strategies. The government aims to create a resilient economy while addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of international climate finance in supporting developing nations like India.
2. Discuss the significance of the National Action Plan on Climate Change in India’s climate strategy.
3. What are the main challenges faced by India in addressing climate change? Discuss with suitable examples.
4. Critically discuss the impact of climate change on agriculture in India and the measures taken to mitigate these effects.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of international climate finance in supporting developing nations like India.

1. International climate finance aims to assist developing countries in combating climate change impacts.
2. India has received USD 1.16 billion through UNFCCC mechanisms, including contributions from the Green Climate Fund and Global Environment Facility.
3. Developed nations are historically responsible for greenhouse gas emissions and are obligated to provide financial support.
4. In 2009, developed countries pledged USD 100 billion annually by 2020, but only met this target in 2020, primarily through loans.
5. Recent offers from developed countries, like USD 300 billion by 2035, have been criticized by India as insufficient for climate action needs.

2. Discuss the significance of the National Action Plan on Climate Change in India’s climate strategy.

1. The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) provides a comprehensive framework for India’s climate initiatives.
2. It integrates climate actions across multiple sectors, ensuring a holistic approach to development and sustainability.
3. NAPCC outlines key missions, such as the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture, aimed at enhancing resilience.
4. It supports the alignment of national policies with climate goals, facilitating resource mobilization and strategic planning.
5. Through NAPCC, India aims to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, addressing climate challenges effectively.

3. What are the main challenges faced by India in addressing climate change? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Inadequate international funding hampers India’s climate action efforts, forcing reliance on domestic resources.
2. Vulnerability to extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, adversely affects agriculture and food security.
3. Urbanization and industrialization increase greenhouse gas emissions, complicating climate mitigation efforts.
4. Limited technological capacity and infrastructure hinder effective adaptation and resilience strategies.
5. Policy implementation gaps and coordination challenges among various governmental levels affect climate action efficacy.

4. Critically discuss the impact of climate change on agriculture in India and the measures taken to mitigate these effects.

1. Climate change threatens crop yields due to erratic weather patterns, increased temperatures, and water scarcity.
2. Projected declines in agricultural productivity highlight the need for adaptive measures to ensure food security.
3. The National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture aims to enhance agricultural resilience through innovative practices.
4. Union Budgets have prioritized funding for agricultural adaptation, including initiatives like the PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana.
5. Long-term strategies include promoting high-yielding seed varieties and sustainable farming practices to mitigate climate impacts.