Climate Summit Focuses on India’s Clean Energy Push and Climate Adaptation Plans

Top policymakers, climate experts, and sustainability advocates gathered at a climate forum in New Delhi to discuss India’s pressing environmental challenges and its pathways to a net-zero future

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasised that India has exceeded its Paris Agreement targets ahead of 2030 and is advancing toward expanding its green cover. He underlined India’s balanced approach of prioritizing both economy and ecology through global collaborations and citizen-driven movements like Mission LiFE.

Highlighting Maharashtra’s clean energy transition, Lokesh Chandra, Chairman and Managing Director of Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company, revealed plans to deploy 16,000 MW of decentralised solar capacity by 2026. He said the move will reduce subsidy burdens, empower farmers with daytime power, and drive rural transformation.

Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of the India Meteorological Department, warned about rising heatwave patterns triggered by climate change. He stressed the need for stronger early warning systems, reduced emissions, and climate-resilient infrastructure to mitigate risks.

While, actor and climate advocate Bhumi Pednekar urged the youth to embrace mindful consumption and sustainable fashion. She emphasised that sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing style but adopting conscious choices that can drive meaningful change.

The discussions concluded with a unanimous call for stronger cross-sector collaborations, immediate climate action, and reinforced commitment to sustainability and resilience.