India's climate challenge and the rise of a new green economy
Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. As the threats posed by climate change escalate, countries are having to navigate the challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. India, with its large population and rising economic stature, is poised at the vanguard of this endeavour.
As ecological tipping points loom closer, the discourse shifts from mere survival to prospering within a burgeoning green economy. India's current climate trajectory is characterized by increasingly frequent and severe weather anomalies, from the inundating floods in Mumbai to the relentless heatwaves across Rajasthan. These events affect millions and place substantial strain on national resources.
Climate change presents a formidable threat to agriculture, which sustains over half of India’s workforce, posing challenges to food security and economic stability. Yet, within these challenges lies an opportunity for India to transition toward a green economy. This shift could serve as a model for other developing nations, demonstrating viable pathways for economic expansion alongside sustainable practices.
The foundation of this new economic paradigm encompasses renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, urban resilience, and green hydrogen. Renewable energy, in particular, offers significant prospects. India is aggressively expanding its renewable capacity, with a target of achieving 500 GW from non-fossil sources by 2030.
This shift towards renewable sources transcends policy initiatives, responding to market imperatives for sustainable and viable energy solutions. Solar power, advantaged by India’s geographical and climatic conditions, offers immense potential for growth. In 2023, India had 238,000 jobs in grid-connected
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