BALEM (Brazil), Nov 19: India has seen significant drop in its ranking on the global Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) within a year. According to the latest CCPI report released on Wednesday, India now holds the 23rd position and is classified among medium-performing countries, a drop from its previous 10th rank last year.
The report highlights that India has earned a medium score in GHG Emissions, Climate Policy, and Energy Use, but a low rating in Renewable Energy. This indicates that the country is asserting its commitment to climate action through a formal strategy and ambitious renewable energy goals, alongside established efficiency programs.
Nevertheless, the report recommends a structured timeline for phasing down coal, with an eventual goal of complete phase-out. This includes establishing a timeline for a no new coal date and identifying a peak coal year. It also suggests that fossil fuel subsidies should be redirected towards decentralized, community-owned renewable energy initiatives, and emphasizes the need for stronger social and environmental safeguards for renewable energy projects.
India has stepped up its renewable energy deployment by utilizing auctions and fiscal measures, with CCPI experts noting a record level of auction participation and a continuous decline in tariffs. India achieved 50% of its installed power capacity in 2025 from non-fossil sources, ahead of the 2030 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target.
While experts commend the developments in green finance taxonomy and a national carbon market framework, concerns remain regarding the country’s reliance on coal, which hampers progress despite a strong commitment to long-term climate goals. There is currently no national timeline for exiting coal, and new coal blocks continue to be auctioned.
The report also points out the persistence of fossil fuel subsidies and infrastructure dependencies. India ranks among the top 10 countries with the largest developed coal reserves and plans to expand its coal production. Additionally, experts criticize the inconsistent and weak signals concerning carbon pricing.
As of September 2025, India has achieved a total solar rooftop capacity of 20.8 GW, with nearly 9 GW added in the past year, representing around 17% of all solar installations in the country. Nonetheless, experts have raised concerns that the development of large grid-scale renewable energy projects has resulted in land disputes, displacement of communities, and increased water stress due to a top-down approach that lacks inclusivity in site selection.
Numerous incidents have been reported, involving human rights abuses and damage to ecosystems. India’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) aim for 50% of its capacity to come from non-fossil sources by 2030, with a target of reducing emissions intensity by 45% compared to 2005 levels.
However, experts argue that the goal of reaching net zero by 2070 does not align with pathways that limit global temperature rise to 1.5?C. Furthermore, they emphasize the absence of interim milestones for 2035 and 2040, the need for clear sector-specific plans and state-level accountability, as well as the limited engagement with civil society and affected communities.
Despite these criticisms, India maintains its stance on equity through Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) and takes a leading role in multilateral efforts like the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Still, experts note that the ongoing expansion of domestic fossil fuel production casts doubt on the country’s credibility in these initiatives.
(UNI)
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