New Delhi, March 25 (NationPress) In a significant advancement towards fulfilling its climate aspirations, the government has sanctioned the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for the timeframe of 2031 to 2035. This commitment outlines a 47 percent reduction in emissions intensity of GDP by 2035 compared to 2005 levels.

This decision, endorsed by the Union Cabinet under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, elevates India's ambitions within the framework of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Paris Agreement, while reinforcing the nation's dedication to sustainable development and climate equity.

The Cabinet articulated that “India’s NDC for 2031-35 is driven by the vision of Viksit Bharat, which is not merely an objective for 2047, but a pledge to take action today to cultivate a thriving and climate-resilient Bharat for future generations.”

The approval of the NDC for 2031-2035 signifies a pivotal moment in India’s path towards a low-carbon and climate-resilient future, further solidifying its position as a global leader in climate initiatives.

These targets for 2031-35 represent a crucial milestone on the road to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

India's initial climate commitments included a target of 33-35 percent reduction in GDP emissions intensity and a 40 percent share of non-fossil resources in electric power capacity, which were successfully met well ahead of schedule.

From 2005 to 2020, emissions intensity decreased by 36 percent, with the new target set at 47 percent to be reached by 2035.

In terms of expanding the share of non-fossil fuel energy in installed electric power capacity, India has achieved a remarkable 52.57 percent non-fossil capacity (as of February 2026), surpassing its target five years ahead. The ambition has now been elevated to achieve a 60 percent share by 2035.

As of 2021, India has already established 2.29 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent through afforestation and ecosystem restoration, which contribute significantly to its carbon sink objectives while aiding rural economies.

The Cabinet also mentioned plans to boost the carbon sink created by forest and tree cover to between 3.5-4.0 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2035 from the 2005 baseline.

Climate action is being executed at the grassroots level through various initiatives, including the Jal Jeevan Mission, National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture, and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), among others.