The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Bengaluru): Recognizing the urgent need to address climate change and environmental degradation, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to build a sustainable and resilient India under its “Modi ki Guarantee for Sustainable Bharat” as part of its election manifesto.
In a historic commitment to global climate action, the BJP pledges to achieve net zero emissions by 2070, aligning India’s development trajectory with the principles of sustainability and low-carbon growth. The party aims to implement a series of policy measures and technological interventions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across key sectors like energy, transport, industry, and agriculture.
To reduce India’s dependence on fossil fuels and promote clean energy, the manifesto promises to significantly increase the share of non-fossil fuel sources in the country’s energy mix. The BJP aims to achieve 500 GW of installed renewable energy capacity by 2030, through the establishment of mega solar parks, wind parks, and the expansion of the Green Energy Corridor project.
Recognizing the importance of India’s rivers for its ecological and economic well-being, the BJP pledges to revitalize the country’s major river systems through a comprehensive approach. Building on the success of the Namami Gange program, the party aims to integrate watershed management, afforestation, wetland conservation, and pollution control measures to improve the health and flow of rivers.
To tackle the problem of air pollution, which has emerged as a major public health concern in many Indian cities, the manifesto promises to strengthen the implementation of the National Clean Air Program (NCAP). The BJP aims to achieve the prescribed air quality standards in 60 cities by 2029 through a combination of policy interventions, technological solutions, and public awareness campaigns.
Acknowledging the critical role of forests in maintaining ecological balance and mitigating climate change, the BJP pledges to promote afforestation and agroforestry on a massive scale. The party aims to increase India’s forest cover to 33% of its total land area, in line with the National Forest Policy, and create a green corridor along the Aravalli range to combat desertification.
Recognizing the vulnerability of India’s coastal regions to climate change and natural disasters, the manifesto promises to develop a comprehensive coastal resilience plan. The BJP aims to strengthen the infrastructure, early warning systems, and disaster response mechanisms in coastal areas, while also promoting sustainable fishing practices and mangrove conservation.
To promote sustainable living and environmental awareness among citizens, the BJP pledges to strengthen the Lifestyle for Environment (LIFE) Mission. The party aims to create a repository of best practices, encourage the adoption of eco-friendly habits, and foster a culture of responsible consumption and waste management.
Other key initiatives include the launch of a National Hydrogen Mission to promote the production and use of green hydrogen as a clean fuel; the implementation of a National Energy Storage Mission to support the integration of renewable energy into the grid; the promotion of electric vehicles and the development of a robust charging infrastructure; and the strengthening of India’s disaster management capabilities to deal with the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.