India has crossed 100 GW of installed solar capacity, contributing significantly to its target of 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030.
The National Solar Mission and schemes like KUSUM have been instrumental in this achievement.
Challenges include grid integration, financing, and land acquisition for large-scale solar projects.
India is now the third-largest solar market globally, reflecting its commitment to clean energy transitions.
India-UK Free Trade Agreement Progress
India and the UK have finalized key chapters of the FTA, focusing on reducing tariffs on goods like automobiles and whisky.
The FTA aims to boost bilateral trade, which stood at $20 billion in 2023-24.
Emphasis is placed on technology transfer, financial services, and sustainable trade practices.
The agreement aligns with India’s strategy of expanding its trade footprint through diversified partnerships.
G20 Roadmap for Inclusive Global Growth
The G20 unveiled a roadmap to address global economic challenges, prioritizing inclusive growth, climate action, and food security.
Initiatives include enhancing Multilateral Development Bank (MDB) lending capacity and reforming global financial institutions.
India advocated for debt sustainability measures for developing nations and support for low-carbon transitions.
The roadmap aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting equitable development.
India Launches National Green Hydrogen Portal
The portal provides a centralized platform for policy updates, incentives, and research related to green hydrogen production.
India targets 5 MMT of annual green hydrogen production by 2030 under its Green Hydrogen Mission.
Applications include mobility, refining, and fertilizer sectors, with export opportunities to Europe and Japan.
The initiative supports India’s net-zero emissions target by 2070 and enhances its global clean energy leadership.
UNESCO Recognizes Three Indian Sites as Biosphere Reserves
Simlipal (Odisha), Dibru-Saikhowa (Assam), and Pachmarhi (Madhya Pradesh) have been added to UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserve network.
These reserves promote biodiversity conservation while supporting sustainable development for local communities.
India now has 18 UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserves, highlighting its ecological and cultural diversity.
Challenges include managing human-wildlife conflicts and ensuring effective implementation of conservation plans.
India Rolls Out e-Mobility Subsidy Program
The government launched a ₹10,000 crore subsidy program under the FAME II scheme to accelerate EV adoption.
Focus areas include electric buses, two-wheelers, and charging infrastructure in urban and rural regions.
India aims to electrify 30% of its vehicle fleet by 2030, reducing carbon emissions and import dependency.
Partnerships with private players will enhance infrastructure development and manufacturing capabilities.
Supreme Court Rules on Protection of Forest Rights
The SC upheld the Forest Rights Act (FRA), emphasizing the rights of Scheduled Tribes and forest dwellers to access forest resources.
The judgment mandates stricter checks on eviction orders and focuses on community participation in forest conservation.
India has 21% forest cover, with initiatives like CAMPA and Green India Mission supporting afforestation efforts.
Challenges include balancing conservation goals with tribal livelihoods and addressing bureaucratic hurdles.
Key Terms and Concepts
National Solar Mission – A government initiative promoting solar energy as part of India’s renewable energy goals.
FAME II Scheme – Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles, aiming to accelerate EV adoption through subsidies and infrastructure support.
Forest Rights Act (FRA) – Legislation ensuring land and resource rights for Scheduled Tribes and traditional forest dwellers.
Green Hydrogen Mission – India’s flagship program to develop green hydrogen as a clean energy source for industrial applications.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserves – Protected areas promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
