India’s 10th position on the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2025 provides an engaging opportunity to teach students about the nation’s climate policies, progress, and challenges. Released at the UN Climate Conference in Baku on November 20, 2024, the CCPI ranks over 60 countries and the European Union, representing more than 90% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
While India’s slip from last year’s ranking reflects ongoing challenges, its achievements in renewable energy and low per capita emissions highlight significant advancements worth exploring in classrooms.
Key Highlights of India’s Climate Policies
India’s strong performance in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy use categories showcases its dedication to sustainable practices, such as:
- Solar Initiatives: Programs like solar parks and rooftop solar schemes.
- Electric Mobility: Increasing adoption of electric two-wheelers.
- Innovative Renewable Policies: Policies inspiring other developing nations to pursue green energy.
Environmental expert Rajeev Aacharya emphasizes that India’s achievements set an example for developing countries. However, the reliance on coal remains a pressing concern, posing challenges for a complete energy transition.
Challenges and Discussion Points
Educators can guide students in critically analyzing India’s climate efforts, focusing on:
- Coal Dependency: India’s continued reliance on coal, a major GHG contributor, underscores the complexity of balancing energy demands with sustainability goals.
- Inclusive Climate Policies: Development-focused strategies often prioritize industrial energy needs over equitable decarbonization.
These issues allow students to explore the intersections of environmental science, economics, and policy-making, offering insights into sustainable development.
Learning Opportunities
The CCPI 2025 report provides a foundation for students to understand the global climate challenges and India’s role in addressing them. Educators can foster learning through:
- Real-World Examples: Analyze initiatives like solar parks and electric vehicles to demonstrate practical solutions.
- Interactive Methods: Role-playing climate policy discussions or creating renewable energy models.
- Critical Thinking: Evaluate India’s policies to identify areas for improvement and propose innovative solutions.
Inspiring Action Among Students
India’s relatively low per capita emissions and commitment to renewable energy serve as a model for students worldwide. The CCPI report encourages India to:
- Address regional disparities in policy implementation.
- Involve youth in climate advocacy through awareness campaigns.
- Foster global collaborations to lead climate initiatives.
For students, this inspires participation in sustainable practices, such as:
- Reducing Waste and Saving Energy: Simple actions contributing to broader environmental goals.
- Engaging in Campaigns: School-level initiatives on climate action.
- Exploring Green Careers: Careers in climate science, renewable energy, or environmental policy.
Conclusion
By examining India’s achievements and challenges through CCPI 2025, students gain a comprehensive understanding of climate action complexities. This fosters an appreciation for sustainability and empowers them to contribute to a greener future.
Teaching India’s climate policies not only builds awareness but also equips the next generation with the tools to address global environmental issues.
