Prime Minister Narendra Modi has underscored India’s potential contributions to the International Energy Agency (IEA) and advocated for an expanded role for the world’s fastest-growing major economy within the Paris-based organization. Speaking in a recorded message for the ministerial meeting of the IEA, Modi emphasized India’s achievements in surpassing its Paris climate targets ahead of schedule and its unwavering commitment to addressing global environmental concerns.
Despite being home to 17% of the global population, India’s carbon emissions account for only 4% of the total, Modi noted. He highlighted India’s extensive energy access initiatives, which stand as some of the largest in the world, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to equitable and sustainable development. Congratulating the IEA on its 50th anniversary, Modi expressed confidence that the organization would benefit significantly from India’s increased involvement.
Modi stressed the importance of inclusivity in enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of international institutions. With 1.4 billion people, India brings a wealth of talent, technology, and innovation to the table. Modi emphasized India’s capacity for scale and speed in tackling global challenges, asserting that the country’s contributions could bolster the IEA’s capabilities.
India’s economic growth, which has propelled it to become the world’s fifth-largest economy, is underpinned by a focus on energy security and sustainability, Modi emphasized. Over the past decade, India has seen remarkable growth in its renewable energy capacity, with solar energy capacity increasing twenty-six-fold. Modi pointed out that India has exceeded its Paris commitments, achieving emissions intensity-related targets eleven years ahead of schedule and non-fossil fuel targets nine years ahead of schedule.
Despite these achievements, Modi reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to combating climate change. The country has set ambitious targets, aiming to reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030 from 2005 levels and achieve 50% cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030. India has also pledged to become a net-zero economy by 2070, reflecting its determination to contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change.
Modi highlighted India’s leadership in driving initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and the Mission LiFE, which promotes pro-planet lifestyle choices. He expressed gratitude to the IEA for its support of initiatives like the Global Biofuels Alliance, which was launched during India’s G20 Presidency.
The IEA’s 2024 ministerial meeting in Paris brought together energy and climate ministers from around the world to discuss the latest developments in energy markets, policies, and transitions. Against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions, including the Russia-Ukraine war, and international efforts to address climate change, the meeting assumed added significance.
Founded in 1974 to ensure the security of oil supplies, the IEA has evolved to become a central player in global energy dialogue, particularly on clean energy transitions. The meeting provided an opportunity to assess the current state of energy markets and set the agency’s strategic direction for the future.
Prime Minister Modi’s remarks at the IEA ministerial meeting underscored India’s potential to drive positive change in the global energy landscape. With its impressive achievements in renewable energy deployment and commitment to sustainability, India stands ready to play a more significant role in shaping international energy policies and initiatives. As the world grapples with pressing energy and climate challenges, India’s proactive approach and innovative solutions offer valuable contributions to global efforts towards a sustainable and secure energy future.