PM Modi Asserts India’s Leadership on Climate Justice During World Environment Day Discourse

New Delhi, India – On the occasion of World Environment Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a powerful message emphasizing India’s unwavering commitment to both infrastructure development and environmental conservation. In his virtual address from New Delhi, PM Modi highlighted the repercussions faced by developing and underdeveloped nations due to the flawed policies implemented by some developed countries. He proudly declared that India stands alone in raising the critical issue of climate justice on the global stage.

Addressing a gathering at Vigyan Bhawan, PM Modi shed light on the prevailing model adopted by many countries, where their own development takes precedence over environmental concerns. While these countries have achieved their development goals, it is the global environment that has borne the brunt of their progress. Modi expressed solidarity with developing and underdeveloped nations, who are now grappling with the consequences of the flawed policies enacted by a select few developed countries. He stressed that for decades, no country had been willing to confront the attitude of these developed nations, but India has consistently advocated for climate justice.

PM Modi Champions Climate Justice and Environmental Focus on World Environment Day

Furthermore, PM Modi emphasized that India is making unprecedented investments in infrastructure while simultaneously prioritizing environmental preservation. He drew attention to the synergies between economic growth and ecological safeguarding, citing notable examples such as the expansion of 4G and 5G connectivity and the simultaneous increase in the country’s forest cover. Highlighting India’s commitment to social welfare, Modi mentioned the construction of 40 million (4 crore) houses for the poor, as well as the significant rise in the number of wildlife sanctuaries and the thriving wildlife population in the country.

India’s progress is not limited to infrastructure and social development alone. Modi proudly announced that India is on the path to becoming the world’s fifth-largest economy and is among the top five countries in renewable energy capacity. Additionally, the country has been augmenting its agricultural exports and spearheading a campaign to blend 20% ethanol in petrol, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. India has also emerged as a global base for organizations like the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), the International Solar Alliance, and the International Big Cat Alliance.

PM Modi highlighted the impact of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), a public movement aimed at raising awareness and fostering sustainable lifestyle changes to combat climate change. Introduced during the UN Climate Conference (COP26) in Glasgow in 2021, the mission gained immense popularity, with nearly 20 million people joining within 30 days of its launch. Modi emphasized that the consciousness towards climate change extends beyond India, with global support for the initiative steadily increasing.

This year’s World Environment Day focused on the campaign to eliminate single-use plastic. PM Modi underscored India’s efforts in this regard, initiating a two-pronged approach in 2018: banning single-use plastic and making plastic waste processing mandatory. These measures have resulted in the compulsory recycling of approximately 3 million tonnes of plastic packaging, which accounts for 75% of the total annual plastic waste generated in the country.

India has also demonstrated its commitment to green and clean energy over the past nine years. Modi cited remarkable achievements in solar power generation and the widespread adoption of energy-efficient LED bulbs, saving people money while contributing to a low-carbon future. Notably, the number of wetlands and Ramsar sites in India has almost tripled during this period, reflecting the country’s dedication to preserving vital ecosystems.

India’s PM Modi: Championing Climate Justice and Sustainable Development on World Environment Day

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav highlighted India’s constructive participation in developing a zero draft for an international legally binding instrument to combat plastic pollution, particularly in marine environments. India played an active role in the second session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC), held in Paris and concluded on June 2. The committee’s objective is to negotiate a legally binding

treaty on plastics, with the goal of developing the final draft and opening it for ratification by 2025. India’s proactive stance on prohibiting the use and production of single-use plastic sets an exemplary precedent in the global efforts to eliminate plastic pollution.

In conclusion, PM Modi’s address on World Environment Day reaffirmed India’s commitment to climate justice, sustainable development, and environmental conservation. With a comprehensive approach that balances infrastructure development with ecological responsibility, India stands as a global leader in tackling climate change and spearheading initiatives that promote a greener and more sustainable future for all.