Environmental law and climate change are increasingly important issues in India, which is one of the world’s largest emitters of greenhouse gases. The country is also home to diverse ecosystems and biodiversity, making the need for environmental protection all the more urgent.

In India, environmental law is governed by a range of legal instruments, including the Constitution of India, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, and the National Green Tribunal Act, among others. These laws aim to regulate and manage pollution, protect natural resources, and prevent damage to the environment.

In recent years, India has also taken steps to address climate change, including setting ambitious targets for renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The country has pledged to reduce its emissions intensity (emissions per unit of GDP) by 33-35% from 2005 levels by 2030 and increase the share of non-fossil fuels in its energy mix to 40% by 2030.

To achieve these goals, the Indian government has launched various initiatives and policies, such as the National Action Plan on Climate Change, the National Solar Mission, and the Smart Cities Mission. India has also ratified the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

However, India still faces significant challenges in implementing environmental and climate policies. Pollution levels in many Indian cities remain dangerously high, and the country’s dependence on coal and other fossil fuels continues to be a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events and sea level rise, are already being felt in India and pose a threat to the country’s development.

Overall, while India has made significant progress in addressing environmental and climate issues, there is still much work to be done to ensure a sustainable future for the country and the planet.