India rose two spots to ranked eighth on Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI, 2023) published by German Watch, New Climate Institute and Climate Action Network International based in Germany.

“India earned a high rating in the GHG Emissions and Energy Use categories, while a medium for Climate Policy and Renewable Energy. The aggressive policies of India towards rapid deployment of renewables and robust framework for energy efficiency programs have shown considerable impact," India’s power ministry said in a statement.

Published annually since 2005, the index is an independent monitoring tool for tracking the climate protection performance of 59 countries and the EU. The latest report was released during the climate change conference (COP27), which concluded in Egypt’s Sharm el-Sheikh on November 20.

“India jumps two spots higher, and is now ranked eight as per the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI, 2023) published by German Watch, New Climate Institute and Climate Action Network International based in Germany,” the ministry said.

The latest CCPI report puts Denmark, Sweden, Chile and Morocco above India at the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh places, respectively.

Union minister for Power and New and Renewable Energy R. K. Singh highlighted that India’s CCPI ranking is testimony to the leadership shown by Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards addressing global climate change despite the pandemic and tough economic times.

The top 5 rank globally reflects that India is implementing energy transition programmes such as renewable capacity installation at a much faster rate than anywhere in the world. He also highlighted various demand sides flagship programs such as UJALA, PAT Scheme and Standards and Labelling Programme that have contributed significantly to this notable achievement.

The ranking given by CCPI places India as the only G-20 country among the top 10. It may be mentioned here that India will now be assuming G-20 Presidency and it will be an opportune time to show the world, its climate mitigation policies such as the deployment of renewable sources of energy and other energy transition programmes.

The first, second and third ranks were not awarded to any country. In effect, therefore, India’s rank is the best among all large economies.

Image source: Business Standard