India leads G20 sustainability agenda with release of major climate report

Minister of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, on Wednesday released a G20 report titled ‘A Green and Sustainable Growth Agenda for the Global Economy’ in New Delhi. The comprehensive report, a result of the G20 international conference held in July 2023, represents the collaborative efforts of 40 experts from 14 countries.

Yadav commended NITI Aayog for compiling the report, underscoring its significance as Brazil takes over the G20 presidency from India. He reiterated India’s commitment to collective climate action, emphasizing the role of developed nations in supporting the Global South against climate change. The report aligns with India’s pursuit of a just and equitable transition to renewable energy, emphasizing emission cuts and increased financial support.

Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, praised NITI Aayog for organizing the international G20 conference in July. He acknowledged the incorporation of expert inputs into the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration and stressed the urgency of accelerating global growth, emphasizing the crucial role of free trade and the revitalization of the World Trade Organisation.

NITI Aayog Vice Chairman, Suman Bery, highlighted the significance of the report launch, considering it a culmination and a fresh start for both NITI Aayog and India. He emphasized the report’s role in transferring knowledge from the G20 conference to Brazil for their benefit.

The event concluded with a video message from the Global Development Network, an overview of the report, and a lively panel discussion led by Bery. The discussions underscored the importance of a fair transition to address climate change, highlighting its positive economic effects for both advanced and emerging economies.