Sustainable Development

GROUNDWATER EXTRACTION IS SINKING INDIAN CITIES

Unchecked groundwater extraction is sinking major cities, weakening infrastructure and heightening flood and saltwater risks. India must urgently regulate borewells, enforce rainwater harvesting, and adopt integrated, science-based water governance with community participation to safeguard urban stability and secure its most vital resource—groundwater.

HYBRID SOLAR-WIND-STORAGE MODELS: SIGNIFICANCE, CHALLENGES, WAY FORWARD

India encourages hybrid solar-wind-storage systems to ensure a steady clean energy supply, backed by government policies, despite challenges like high costs and land shortages. To achieve sustainable energy goals and become a global leader, India needs to focus on advanced storage solutions, smart grid development, and adaptable regulations.

MANAGING FOREST FIRES: POLICY, PREVENTION & ACTION

In 2024, global tree cover loss surged due to wildfires, with tropical forests burning 370% more than in 2023, releasing 3.1 gigatonnes of CO₂. Climate change and droughts intensified fires across the US, Canada, EU, and Asia, threatening biodiversity and ecosystems. In India, forest fires are increasingly severe, affecting forest health, wildlife, and local communities. Government measures include fire management, afforestation, and community engagement, while long-term strategies emphasize climate adaptation, monitoring, and resilience building.

INDIA'S CLIMATE FINANCE TAXONOMY : BRIDGING FINANCE GAPS & SUSTAINABILITY GOALS

India is developing a Climate Finance Taxonomy to guide sustainable investments and bridge a $170 billion annual climate finance gap by 2030. A CSEP report emphasizes that the taxonomy must be practical, inclusive, and aligned with domestic priorities while remaining credible to global investors. Key recommendations include supporting MSMEs, integrating adaptation finance, promoting indigenous innovations, and ensuring coordination between RBI, SEBI, and the Ministry of Finance. The framework should be dynamic, evolving with technology and market needs to effectively channel finance toward India’s real climate goals.

UNEP ADAPTATION GAP REPORT 2025: CRISIS DEEPENS, FINANCE FALLS SHORT

The UNEP Adaptation Gap Report 2025 forecasts a $350 billion climate adaptation funding gap by 2030, disproportionately affecting vulnerable nations. The report calls for a "Triple Acceleration" in finance, political will, and practical action to avoid jeopardizing climate justice and endangering billions of lives.

SUSTAINABLE AND CLIMATE-RESILIENT FARMING SYSTEMS

Building climate-resilient agriculture secures food supply and supports farmers. India must shift from input-heavy farming to sustainable methods like crop diversification, agroecology, and smart water use. Strengthening soil health, using technology, and valuing traditional knowledge will ensure lasting environmental and economic stability.

INDIA'S FIRST NATIONAL POLICY ON GEOTHERMAL ENERGY EXPLAINED

India’s first National Policy on Geothermal Energy, led by MNRE, marks a major step toward Net Zero 2070. It promotes 24/7 clean power through fiscal incentives, repurposed oil wells, and joint ventures to develop 10 geothermal provinces, strengthening India’s sustainable energy transition.

WESTERN GHATS UNDER THREAT: ICUN'S RED FLAG ALERT EXPLAINED

The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biodiversity hotspot in India, has been flagged by the IUCN as a site of “significant concern” due to threats from climate change, tourism, hydropower projects, and invasive species. Home to over 325 globally threatened species, the Ghats face habitat loss, wildlife conflicts, and ecosystem disruptions. Urgent conservation measures, community involvement, and sustainable development are needed to protect this vital natural heritage.

HANLE DARK SKY RESERVE: PRESERVING HIMALAYAN SKIEW FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

Hanle Dark Sky Reserve in Ladakh, India’s first such reserve, preserves one of the clearest night skies in the world. With minimal light pollution and Bortle-1 clarity, it supports astronomy, astrophotography, and research at the Indian Astronomical Observatory. The reserve boosts the local economy by training residents as Astronomy Ambassadors, promoting astro-tourism, and organizing annual star parties. Government initiatives like the Mini Planetarium and Astro-Globe aim to enhance visitor experience while ensuring sustainable development and cultural preservation.

AS AMERICA TURNS INWARD, INDIA MUST BUILD CITIES THAT INSPIRE TALENT

As global powers turn inward, India has a rare chance to make its cities global innovation hubs. This requires urgent urban reform, better governance, clean air, efficient transport, and top-tier education and healthcare to attract and retain talent, driving India’s economic transformation.

INDIA'S EXPANDING GREEN FOOT PRINT : GLOBAL RANKINGS, ACHIEVEMENTS, & THE WAY FORWARD

According to the FAO’s Global Forest Resources Assessment (GFRA) 2025, India ranks 9th globally in total forest area and maintains the 3rd position in net annual forest area gain, reflecting strong progress in afforestation and forest management. The country is also 5th among top global carbon sinks, with forests absorbing about 150 million tonnes of CO₂ annually (2021–2025).

As per the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, India’s forest cover spans 7,15,343 sq km (21.76% of its geographical area). Government initiatives like the Green India Mission, National Afforestation Programme, and Mission LiFE are driving ecological restoration, community participation, and sustainable living.

India’s achievements demonstrate its multidimensional commitment to climate action, biodiversity conservation, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 13 & SDG 15), positioning it as a global leader in green growth and environmental stewardship.

INDIA'S GLOBAL LEADERSHIP ON CLIMATE CHANGE

India leads global climate efforts, advocating for climate justice in the Global South through its LiFE movement. Despite challenges like coal dependence and funding shortages, India is actively implementing change with initiatives such as the ISA and CDRI, and its 'Panchamrit' goals, turning climate challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth.