India strengthens climate goals, targets 47% emissions cut and 60% clean power by 2035

India has significantly enhanced its climate commitments, with the Union Cabinet approving a revised set of targets that include a 47% reduction in emissions intensity and 60% non-fossil fuel-based power capacity by 2035, according to official announcements.

The updated goals form part of India’s new Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement and will be submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The revised framework reflects a stronger push toward decarbonisation while balancing energy needs and economic growth.

Under the new targets, India aims to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 47% from 2005 levels by 2035. In addition, the country has committed to ensuring that 60% of its installed electricity capacity comes from non-fossil fuel sources, including solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear energy.

The Cabinet also approved plans to create a carbon sink of 3.5 to 4 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent through increased forest and tree cover, strengthening nature-based climate solutions alongside industrial decarbonisation efforts.

Officials highlighted that these targets are not merely aspirational but are grounded in India’s past performance. Between 2005 and 2020, India reduced its emissions intensity by about 36% and achieved over 50% non-fossil fuel capacity in its power mix ahead of earlier deadlines.

The government said the updated commitments align with the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities,” emphasising that India’s climate strategy must account for its development priorities and relatively low per capita emissions compared to developed nations.

Experts have described the move as a signal of continuity in India’s climate policy, especially at a time when global energy security concerns and geopolitical tensions are affecting climate action worldwide. The new targets aim to strike a balance between expanding clean energy capacity and ensuring affordable and reliable power for a growing population.

Implementation of these goals will be driven by ongoing initiatives such as renewable energy expansion, green hydrogen development, battery storage systems, and cleaner industrial processes. Infrastructure investments and international collaborations, including climate finance and technology partnerships, are expected to support the transition.

The updated NDC is also seen as a key step toward India’s long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.