Initiatives by India on Climate Change

Science & Research/ Policy Development

Indian Network for Climate Change Assessment (INCCA)

-Network of 120 research institutions and 250 scientists launched. Major conferences planned in May and November 2010.

Himalayan Glaciers Monitoring Programme

-Comprehensive programme to scientifically monitor the Himalayan glaciers – Phase I completed, Phase II launched; Discussion Paper on State of Himalayan Glaciers released

Launch of Indian Satellite to Monitor Greenhouse Gases

-ISRO to launch a micro-satellite in 2010 to study aerosols (soot particles), followed by a comprehensive satellite in 2011 to monitor GHG gases; India to join elite club of countries to do so.

India’s Forest and Tree Cover as a Carbon Sink

-Research estimates the value of India’s forests as a carbon sink – assessment shows that they neutralise 11% of India’s annual GHG emissions

India’s GHG Emissions Profile

-India’s GHG Emission Pathways until 2030 under different assumptions made public; shows India will remain a minor per capita emitter even in 2030

Expert Group on Low Carbon Economy

-Planning Commission-led Group set up to develop strategy for India as a low carbon economy; to feed into twelfth plan process

State Action Plans on Climate Change

-Delhi becomes first State to release Climate Change Action Plan; other States finalizing their Plans

National Policy on Biofuels

-National Policy on Bio-fuels approved by Cabinet to promote cultivation, production and use of Bio-fuels for transport and in other applications

Ref: MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS, GOVERNMENT OF INDIA