India Submits Updated Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy to UNFCCC

India has submitted its updated Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), reaffirming its commitment to climate action while pursuing sustainable development. The strategy outlines India’s long-term pathways for achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2070, in line with the pledge announced at COP26 in Glasgow.

The updated LT-LEDS emphasises a balanced and just transition, recognising India’s development priorities, energy needs and socio-economic challenges. A key pillar of the strategy is the large-scale expansion of renewable energy, including solar, wind and hybrid systems, to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and decarbonise the power sector. The strategy reiterates India’s target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based capacity by 2030.

Another major focus area is green hydrogen, which is expected to play a critical role in decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors such as steel, fertilisers, refining and long-haul transport. The strategy highlights the development of domestic manufacturing, supportive policies and infrastructure to scale up green hydrogen production and usage.

The LT-LEDS also stresses the importance of sustainable mobility, promoting electric vehicles, improved public transport systems, rail-based freight, and alternative fuels to reduce emissions from the transport sector. Urban planning and behavioural changes are identified as key enablers of low-carbon mobility.

In agriculture, the strategy prioritises climate-resilient and sustainable practices, including efficient water use, resilient crop varieties, improved soil health and reduction of emissions from livestock. Nature-based solutions such as afforestation and ecosystem restoration are highlighted as essential carbon sinks.

India’s submission underscores the need for climate finance, technology transfer and capacity-building from developed countries, consistent with the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities. By submitting the updated LT-LEDS, India has reinforced its role as a responsible global actor committed to addressing climate change while safeguarding developmental aspirations.