INDIA’S INTENDED NATIONALLY DETERMINED CONTRIBUTION

development, even providing a model of growth to other developing countries. However, if
India compares the emission intensity of its GDP (Gross Domestic Product) in PPP
(Purchasing Power Parity) terms at present with those countries at a similar level of
development, it is seen that their emissions then were far more than India’s at present. This is
as much on account of India being open and innovative in embracing new technology and a
cleaner way of doing things, as it is from the inherent principles of sustainability ingrained in
its thought process.
If the world indeed is concerned about its new investments to be climate friendly, it must
consider the opportunity provided by a country like India where economic growth could be
achieved with minimum levels of emissions by employing new technologies and finance for
achieving low carbon growth. Developed countries can certainly bring down their emission
intensity by moderating their consumption, and substantially utilize their investments by
employing them for development activities in countries housing a vast majority of people
barely living at subsistence level. The ratio of emission avoided per dollar invested and
economic growth attained would be relatively more favourable in case of investments made
in India.
Mahatma Gandhi had once said, “One must care about the world one will not see”. Indeed,
humanity has progressed when it has collectively risen to its obligation to the world and
responsibility to the future.
2015 Agreement
India is committed to engaging actively in multilateral negotiations under the UNFCCC in a
positive, creative and forward-looking manner. Our objective is to establish an effective,
cooperative and equitable global architecture based on climate justice and the principles of
Equity and Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities, under
the UNFCCC. Such an approach should be anchored in the vision inspired by Mahatma
Gandhi's famous exhortation; “Earth has enough resources to meet people’s needs, but will
never have enough to satisfy people's greed”. We must promote sustainable production
processes and also sustainable lifestyles across the globe. Habit and attitude are as much a
part of the solution as Technology and Finance. It must be understood that poverty is a big
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