Cabinet Approves India Updated NDC Targets for 2031 2035

On 25th March 2026, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved India’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for 2031-2035 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.

Key Points

Emissions Intensity Target: India aims to reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 47% by 2035 (from 2005 levels).
Clean Energy Goal: Target to achieve 60% of installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2035.
Carbon Sink Creation: Plan to create an additional 3.5-4 billion tonnes CO₂ equivalent through forest and tree cover.
Progress So Far:
- Emissions intensity already reduced by 36% (2005-2020).
- Non-fossil capacity exceeded 52% (2026).
- Carbon sink of 2.29 billion tonnes CO₂ achieved by 2021.
Key Initiatives Supporting NDC:
- National Green Hydrogen Mission
- PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes
- PM-KUSUM
- xpansion of nuclear energy & carbon capture technologies
Global Cooperation Platforms:
- International Solar Alliance
- Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
- Global Biofuel Alliance
Adaptation Measures:
- Mangrove restoration for coastal protection.
- Glacier monitoring in Himalayan regions.
- Heat action plans and early warning systems.
Policy Framework: Implemented through National Action Plan on Climate Change and State Action Plans, supported by schemes like Jal Jeevan Mission and PM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana.
People-Centric Approach: Initiatives like ‘Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)’ and ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ promote public participation in climate action.