India to Finalise Updated Climate Plan Ahead of COP30

India to Finalise Streamlined Climate Plan Ahead of COP30

New Delhi, September 25, 2025 — India is preparing to submit its streamlined Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) ahead of the COP30 United Nations Climate Conference, scheduled for November in Brazil. The new submission will advance India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, setting updated targets for 2035 while reaffirming long-term goals for sustainable, climate-resilient growth.

Existing Commitments and Progress

India first submitted its NDC in 2015, pledging to:

• Reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 33–35% from 2005 levels by 2030.

• Achieve 40% non-fossil fuel-based power capacity.

• Create a forest carbon sink of 2.5–3 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent.

In 2022, these were strengthened to a 45% emissions intensity reduction and at least 50% non-fossil energy capacity by 2030, while maintaining the carbon sink goal.

India has already exceeded a major milestone, with renewables crossing 50% of installed capacity ahead of schedule. Emissions intensity has also declined by 36% as of 2020, showing substantial progress.

Focus of the Updated NDC

The third edition of India’s climate plan is expected to:

• Further lower emissions intensity while accommodating economic growth.

• Expand renewable and clean energy capacity.

• Strengthen forest and land-use measures for carbon absorption.

• Extend commitments with a 2035 outlook.

This update will align with India’s long-term development vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047” — a developed, climate-resilient economy.

Challenges and International Context

The update comes at a time when several major emitters, including China and the EU, have delayed submitting their revised NDCs, threatening global momentum. At the UN Climate Summit earlier this month, leaders warned that the window to keep warming below 1.5°C is rapidly closing, urging countries to present clear 2035 and 2050 targets at COP30.

India has also raised concerns over the slow delivery of climate finance and technology transfer promised to developing countries. Officials indicated that the scale of India’s updated ambition may depend on stronger international support.

India’s Climate Diplomacy

India continues to play a leadership role in global climate cooperation through initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). At COP30, India is expected to highlight its clean energy transition achievements while pressing for equity in global climate responsibilities.

The Road Ahead

By submitting its updated NDC, India is set to reinforce its role as a key player in international climate governance. With a focus on renewable energy, efficiency, afforestation, and inclusive development, the plan will balance the urgency of climate action with national growth priorities.

As global leaders convene in Brazil this November, India’s streamlined climate plan will be pivotal in shaping the collective pathway toward net zero.