Climate action must focus on welfare of all, says Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said climate action must follow the idea of “antyodaya” or ensuring the welfare of the people at the bottom of the pyramid, hours before the G20 countries failed to reach a consensus on steps to tackle the crisis at ministerial talks in Chennai.

Addressing the environment and climate sustainability ministers of G20 countries, that contribute 80% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the PM said climate action needs to prioritise development of countries in the Global South which are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate crisis.

“We need enhanced action on commitments under the UN Climate Convention and the Paris Agreement. This will be crucial in helping the Global South fulfills its developmental aspirations in a climate-friendly way,” Modi said in his virtual address.

At COP27 in Sharm-el Sheikh last year, India pushed for a cover decision that stuck to the Paris Agreement goal of limiting global warming to well below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C compared to pre-industrial levels, while underlining the principles of equity and CBDR (common but differentiated responsibilities).