Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, delivered a keynote address at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Business Summit 2025 (CII Summit 2025), focusing on India’s climate policy architecture and its role as a global leader in sustainability. The session, themed ‘India’s Climate Policy Architecture: Pathways for Emerging Economies’, highlighted India’s innovative approaches to combating climate change while fostering economic growth.
The ‘India Story’: Tradition Meets Transformation
In his address, Shri Yadav described India’s journey as a unique blend of tradition and transformation, where democracy and development coexist harmoniously. He emphasized that the essence of the ‘India Story’ lies in prioritizing ‘India First’, ensuring sustainable growth while addressing environmental challenges.
Praising Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), the Minister highlighted its transformative approach to environmental protection. Mission LiFE fosters community participation, encouraging businesses, communities, and individuals to contribute to saving the planet through conscious lifestyle choices.
Three Pillars of India’s Climate Policy
Shri Yadav outlined three key drivers shaping India’s climate policy framework:
- Self-Reliant Circular Economy: A Path to Sustainable Growth
India is transitioning from a linear to a circular economy model, promoting resource efficiency and waste reduction. The government has introduced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines for sectors like tyres, batteries, plastics, and e-waste, driving recycling and sustainable consumption. Between 2022 and 2024, the recycling sector attracted investments of ₹10,000 crore, reflecting strong industry commitment. By 2050, the circular economy sector is projected to be worth $2 trillion, creating 10 million jobs. - Protecting Natural Ecosystems and Strengthening Resilience
Under PM Modi’s leadership, initiatives like Mission LiFE and the nationwide campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ have empowered communities to participate in environmental conservation. The introduction of Green Credit Rules under Mission LiFE incentivizes voluntary actions, fostering a culture of sustainability. - Promoting Adaptation: Building Climate Resilience
Recognizing the challenges posed by climate change, India is committed to enhancing resilience through adaptation strategies. The government has released the Draft Framework of the Climate Finance Taxonomy, classifying activities under adaptation and mitigation. Additionally, India is developing its first National Adaptation Plan, to be submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), focusing on strengthening adaptive capacity, knowledge systems, and reducing exposure to climate risks.
India: A Trusted Global Partner
In a world marked by geopolitical uncertainties, Shri Yadav underscored India’s position as a trusted global partner, attributing this trust to the nation’s political stability, visionary leadership, cultural values, and commitment to sustainability.
Call to Action for Industry Leaders
The Union Minister urged industry leaders to actively contribute to building a self-reliant circular economy. He invited them to join the Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy Industry Coalition, launched under India’s G20 Presidency, as a collaborative platform for knowledge-sharing and sustainable practices.
Shri Yadav concluded by emphasizing the importance of collective action in achieving India’s climate goals, urging businesses to align with national priorities and contribute to a sustainable future.
