Question

Explain India's stand on environmental issues

Answer 1

India signed and ratified the 1997 Kyoto Protocol in August 2002. India, China and other developing countries were exempt from the requirements of the Kyoto Protocol because their contribution to the emission of greenhouse gases during the industrialisation period (that is believed to be causing today's global warming and climate change) was not significant. India's international negotiating position relies heavily on principles of historical responsibility, as enshrined in UNFCCC. This acknowledges that developed countries are responsible for most historical and current greenhouse emissions, and emphasises that economic and social development are the first and overriding priorities of the developing countries. The Indian government is already participating in global efforts through several programmes. For example, India's National Auto-Fuel Policy mandates cleaner fuels for vehicles. The Energy Conservation of India finds it necessary that developed countries take immediate measures to provide developing countries with financial resources and clean technologies to enable them to meet their existing commitments under UNFCCC.