Sustainable Development

India enters Top 100 in Global SDG Rankings 2025

Context: India improves its position in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals Index ranking 99th in the 2025 edition of the Sustainable Development Report.

India has been ranked among the top 100 countries in the Index for the first time since this data began to be published from 2016.

Relevance of the Topic : Prelims: Key Highlights of Sustainable Development Report (SDR).

About Sustainable Development Report (SDR)

Released by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). SDSN is an independent body under the aegis of the UN, whose publications are tracked by policymakers and governments.
The index measures overall progress toward achieving the 17 SDGs adopted by United Nations member states in 2015.
Countries are ranked by their overall score. A score of 100 indicates that all SDGs have been achieved.

17 Sustainable Development Goals are:

Key Highlights of the Report:

India's Performance:

India is ranked 99th with a score of 67 on the SDG Index, a significant improvement from its 109th rank in 2024.
The report noted that since the adoption of the SDGs, India has steadily improved its standing: it ranked 112th in 2023, 121st in 2022, and 120th in 2021.

Global Performance:

European countries continue to lead the SDG Index- 19 of the top 20 countries are from Europe.
Finland, Sweden, and Denmark are the top three countries on the SDG Index.
East and South Asia have outperformed all other global regions in terms of SDG progress - demonstrating the fastest progress since 2015 largely due to socio-economic development.
Among India’s neighbours, Bhutan ranks 74th (70.5), Nepal 85th (68.6), Bangladesh 114th (63.9), and Pakistan 140th (57). Maritime neighbours Maldives and Sri Lanka stand at 53rd and 93rd places respectively.

China is ranked 49th with a score of 74.4.
The United States stands at 44th with 75.2 points.

The report flagged that global progress on the SDGs has largely stalled.

Only 17% of the SDG targets are on track to be achieved by 2030. Main reasons for slow progress are conflicts, structural weaknesses, and limited government finances.
Even the top performing European countries are facing challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss, mostly due to unsustainable consumption patterns.

India state of Sustainable Development: Hits & Misses:

SDSN ranks India as having fared better in poverty reduction (SDG 1). However, some issues persist like- lack of publicly available consumption expenditure data since 2018, non-updation of the poverty line (Rangarajan line ~₹33/day rural, ₹47/day urban).
Zero hunger (SDG 2) reveals the wide disparity between income groups and rural and urban areas on access to a nutritious diet.
- National Family Health Survey (NFHS) estimates that over a third of Indians (35.5%) were stunted (NFHS-5, 2019-21). Wasting (low weight for height) exists at 19.3%.
- Obesity in the working age population (15-49 years) has almost doubled between 2006 and 2021, and concentrated in wealthier urban areas.
Electricity access (SDG 7)- India has achieved near universal household electrification in the past two decades, but the quality of power and duration vary vastly based on regions and urban/rural fault lines. India ranks as the fourth largest renewables capacity deployer, mainly solar and wind.
Infrastructure provision (SDG 9)- India has bettered its score in infrastructure with noteworthy additions being rapid mobile penetration and financial inclusion through UPI-linked digital payments gateways. However, stark differences exist between rural and urban Internet penetration, which must be addressed to achieve even higher educational outcomes (SDG 4).
India’s performance in governance, the rule of law, press freedom and strong and independent institutions (SDG 16) has been lagging.

Sustainable Nickel Extraction - Hydrogen Plasma Method

Context: A new study by researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials, Germany, revealed a sustainable method to extract Nickel from low-grade ores using hydrogen plasma instead of carbon.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about Hydrogen Plasma Based Nickel Extraction

About Nickel

Nickel is a critical metal used in several clean energy technologies, especially Electric Vehicles (EVs), as it is a major component of lithium-ion batteries used in EVs.
Traditional nickel extraction is Carbon intensive, producing 1 tonne of nickel and emitting over 20 tonnes of CO₂.
While EVs are seen as a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered vehicles, there are hidden environmental costs associated with their production, especially in the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries.

The new study has introduced a sustainable, one-step method to extract nickel using hydrogen plasma instead of carbon.

Hydrogen Plasma Method

Traditional Nickel Extraction is multi-step, energy-intensive and relies on carbon. Nickel oxide is heated with carbon, which removes the oxygen and produces pure nickel, along with carbon dioxide emissions.
Hydrogen Plasma Method: The method replaces carbon with hydrogen plasma as the reducing agent and uses electricity as the energy source, specifically through an electric arc furnace. It is conducted in a single electric arc furnace, unlike the current multi-step process (calcination → smelting → reduction → refining).
- Hydrogen gas, when subjected to high-energy electrons in an electric arc, splits into high-energy ions, entering a plasma state. Plasma is the extremely hot and reactive fourth state of matter. It is distinct from solids, liquids, and gases.
- Hydrogen plasma acts as a reducing agent and rapidly reduces the metal oxides. From a thermodynamic perspective, the process is not only cleaner but significantly faster.
- The end product of hydrogen reacting with oxygen is water, not carbon dioxide. Therefore, the entire process is carbon-free, using only electricity, hydrogen, and yielding water as a byproduct.

The findings present a significant advancement in making nickel production cleaner and more energy-efficient.

Key Benefits of Hydrogen Plasma Method:

84% reduction in direct carbon dioxide emissions compared to conventional processes.
Up to 18% more energy-efficient and faster, reducing both energy consumption and time.
The only byproduct of the process is water (H₂O) instead of CO2.
The method produces high-purity ferronickel- an alloy with which stainless steel can be made, eliminating the need for extensive refining steps and making the overall process more sustainable.
The process is particularly effective on nickel laterite ores, which are abundant but underutilised due to traditional methods requiring high-grade ores. This has special significance for India, which has substantial laterite deposits in Odisha’s Sukinda region.

However, scaling the method for industrial use would require significant initial investments, access to renewable energy, and further research on kinetics and plasma stability.

Why does India need stable Urban Forests?

Context: Urban forests are essential for sustainable and healthy city living, but face serious threats from unplanned urbanisation requiring legal, civic, and policy safeguards. The recent Kancha Gachibowli incident in Telangana highlighted the vulnerability of urban forests and environmentally insensitive models of urban development.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts related to initiatives to protect urban forests.Mains: Importance of urban forests.

Why do Urban Forests matter?

Urban forests such as Kancha Gachibowli in Hyderabad, Aarey in Mumbai, Turahalli in Bengaluru, Neela Hauz and the Ridge in Delhi, and Dol Ka Baadh in Jaipur, are significant for healthy urban living. Urban forests help:
- mitigate climate change, sequester carbon and absorb pollutants.
- control stormwater runoff, erosion, and flooding.
- reduce the urban heat island effect
- coping with emissions from automobile vehicles (PM 2.5 and PM 10 pollutants)
- green spaces help the survival of endangered species.
A study by the US Department of Agriculture Forest Service showed that one hectare of trees can remove around one ton of air pollutants. However, diminishing urban forests in India’s metropolitan cities spell severe consequences. E.g., air quality index (AQI) in Delhi at 494.

Legal and Policy Framework for Protection of Urban Forests:

Constitutional Safeguards:

Article 21 (Right to Life): includes the Right to a healthy environment.
Article 48A: Duty of the State to protect and improve the environment.
Article 51A(g): Fundamental duty of citizens to protect the environment.

Government Schemes and Policies:

National Forest Policy of 1988 and the National Mission for Green India of 2014 underlined the imperative of increasing afforestation and social forestry.
Smart Cities Mission and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation, launched in 2015 integrated smart urban designs with ecological and social development.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) of the Government of India had rolled out the Nagar Van Yojana (urban forest scheme) in 2020 to promote and grow forest spaces in urban areas.

Nagar Van Yojana:

Launched in 2020 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) of the Government of India.
Objective: To promote and grow forest spaces in urban areas.
Target: To develop 1000 Nagar Vans by 2027 with the financial support of National Fund of National Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).
Significance: Help in protecting forest land within and around urban centers from degradation and encroachment. According to the India State of Forest Report 2023, the scheme has resulted in an increase of 1445.81 km of tree and forest cover.

Judicial Interventions:

The landmark Godavarman case in 1996 broadened the definition of forests to enhance the protection of urban greenery.
In 2015, the Delhi High Court directed the Delhi government to notify and protect the Delhi Ridge, also known as the Aravalli leopard wildlife corridor.
Similarly, the SC issued a stay order on the tree felling in Aarey in Mumbai in 2020 in response to the petitions by the citizens who conducted the Save Aarey Forest movement.

Threat to urban forests is a challenge to our biomedical, social, and cultural well-being. Urban forests are not just patches of greenery but life-sustaining ecosystems which need sustained preservation.

India’s shift to Inclusive Conservation of Forests

Context: Conservation laws rooted in colonial legacy, often exclude and criminalise Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs), despite their proven role in biodiversity protection. India’s Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006 is a shift towards rights-based, community-led conservation framework for truly sustainable and just environmental governance.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts related to FRA, Biological Diversity Act, CBD, KMGBF, OECMs

Fortress Conservation Model

Conservation laws and policies across the world, often rooted in colonial legacy, viewed nature as something to be preserved in its pristine form, free from human presence.
This has led to the "fortress conservation" model, where large tracts of land are designated as Protected Areas with centralised state control.
Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) despite their historical and cultural ties to these landscapes are frequently displaced, disenfranchised, and criminalised as encroachers.
Impact of Fortress Conservation Model: The Fortress model has displaced 10 to 20 million people globally. In India, >6 lakh people are estimated to have been displaced from protected areas under laws such as the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and initiatives like Project Tiger.

Presently, many international legislative institutions are recognising the crucial role of indigenous people and local communities in biodiversity conservation. This shift is visible in international conventions like the Convention on Biological Diversity and domestic legislations such as India’s Forest Rights Act, 2006.

Legal Frameworks Supporting Inclusive Conservation

1. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD):

Adopted at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, and came into force in 1993.
Members: 196 countries including India have ratified CBD, making it a universal treaty.
CBD’s main objectives: conservation, sustainable use, and fair and equitable sharing of the benefits of biodiversity, including landscapes, species, and genetic resources.
CBD has urged countries to respect, preserve and maintain knowledge, innovations and practices of indigenous and local communities embodying traditional lifestyles relevant for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.
CBD’s COP-16 summit established a permanent subsidiary body for IPLCs. This body made the CBD the only UN Convention with a dedicated platform to implement the rights of IPLCs.

2. UN Declaration on Rights of Indigenous People:

In 2007, the UN passed its Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People to address the discrimination IPLCs face throughout the world and to emphasise their right to maintain and strengthen their own institutions, cultures and traditions.
India voted in favour of UNDRIP but does not use the term “indigenous peoples” domestically. Instead, it offers constitutional safeguards to Scheduled Tribes through: Article 244 & 244A (Schedule V and VI), Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act 1996 and Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006.

3. Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF):

CBD signatories adopted this at their COP-15 summit in 2022 in Canada. It seeks to integrate and ensure equitable representation of IPLCs and their traditional knowledge in the implementation of the framework.
It envisions a world living in harmony with nature with a list of 23 targets to achieve it. An important one is titled ‘30 by 30,’ i.e. countries committing to bring 30% of the world’s land and marine areas under their protection by 2030.
The targets also mention consultation and inclusion of IPLCs, their cultural practices, and their traditional knowledge.

India’s Domestic Frameworks to support Inclusive Conservation:

As per 2011 Census, India hosts around 104 million tribals, 8.6% of the then Indian population - effectively the world’s largest population of indigenous people in a single country.

1. Biological Diversity Act, 2002:

India enacted the Act in 2002 to implement the objectives of the CBD.
The Act provides for a three-tier institutional system to promote the conservation of local plants, animals, and habitats including documenting biodiversity-related traditional knowledge.
- National Biodiversity Authority at the Centre.
- State Biodiversity Boards in the States.
- Biodiversity Management Committees operate at the local level.

2. India’s Forest Rights Act, 2006:

Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, or The FRA recognises historical injustices suffered by Adivasis and forest dwellers.
It recognises and secures the rights of forest dwelling tribal communities and other traditional forest dwellers to forest resources.
It recognises 13 kinds of rights, including the right of access to biodiversity and community, right to intellectual property and traditional knowledge related to biodiversity, and cultural diversity, and right to protect, regenerate, or conserve or manage any community forest resource that they have been traditionally protecting and conserving for sustainable use.
Research estimates that FRA has the potential to protect at least 4 crore hectares of forest land, including existing protected areas. To enable it to do so without also dispossessing the stewards of this land, other laws and policies must comply with the FRA.

3. National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan:

India came up with a list of 23 targets under its updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAPs) that it aims to achieve by 2030.

Challenges to Inclusive Conservation in India:

Even though updated NBSAPs emphasise a paradigm shift towards a bottoms-up governance approach (as in the FRA), it excessively favours State forest departments and State-led conservation measures over decentralised approaches.
India’s conservation efforts often overlook forest dwellers’ legal rights by creating new biodiversity mechanisms without settling claims under the FRA or securing Gram Sabha consent, undermining inclusive and participatory conservation.
Traditional access to forests is still treated as encroachment in many laws.

Thus, for all these international victories, the struggle for the rights of IPLCs in conservation approaches is far from over. The premise of the ‘30 by 30’ agenda itself jeopardises these rights because it promotes the idea that simply expanding protected areas will arrest biodiversity loss.

OECMs: New Models for Conservation

The KMGBF makes provisions to move beyond protected areas through its Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs).
Each OECM is to be identified by four features: should not already be a protected area; is already governed and managed by governments, private entities or IPLCs; makes sustainable efforts to conserve biodiversity; and protects ecosystem functions as well as cultural, socio-economic, etc. values.
India plans to notify the OECM guidelines soon. Some experts have expressed optimism that this is an opportunity to involve communities in conservation.

However, without proper checks and legal recognition of rights, OECMs can become tools of exploitation.

International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy (IPHE)

Context: 41st Steering Committee Meeting of International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy (IPHE) is being hosted in India.

About International Partnership for Hydrogen & Fuel Cells in the Economy (IPHE)

IPHE is an international partnership mechanism to organise and implement, effective, efficient and focused international research, development, demonstration and commercial utilisation activities related to hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

The formation of IPHE was facilitated by US Department of Energy and US Department of Transportation in 2003 to foster international cooperation on hydrogen and fuel cell.

Membership of IPHE: 23 Countries including India and the European Commission. However, membership of IPHE does not result in any legally binding obligations on Partners.

Functions of IPHE are:

Identify and promote potential areas of bilateral and multilateral collaboration on hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.
Analyse and recommend priorities for research, development, demonstration and commercial utilisation of hydrogen technologies and equipment.
Analyse and develop policy recommendation on technical guidance, including common codes, standards and regulations to advance hydrogen and fuel cell technology development, demonstration and commericial use.
Foster implementation of large-scale, long-term public private cooperation to advance hydrogen and fuel cell technology and infrastructure research, demonstration and commercial use, in accordance with Partners' priorities.
Coordinate and leverage resources to advance bilateral and multilateral cooperation in hydrogen and fuel cell technology research, development, demonstration and commercial utilisation.
Address emerging technical, financial, legal, market, socio-economic, environmental and policy issues and opportunities related to hydrogen and fuel cell technology that are not currently being addressed elsewhere.

Organisation of IPHE

Chair of the IPHE is elected by IPHE members for a term of two years, with a potential for renewal.
Steering Committee with two representatives for each of the Partner countries governs the overall framework and procedures of IPHE.
Secretariat of IPHE to be coordinate overall activities of IPHE.

Funding of IPHE: Any costs arising from the activities will be borne by the Partner that incurs them. Secretariat Office is supported by voluntary contributions (Financial or in-kind) of all members.

India's largest solar battery project

Context: Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has commissioned India's largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh.

About the project

The Solar Battery Project is a 40 MW/120 MWh Battery Energy Storage System with an installed capacity of 152.35-megawatt hour and a dispatchable capacity of 100 MW AC.
The project has deployed bifacial modules which reflect the light from the ground. This helps in generating more electricity than monofacial modules.
The energy generated from the plant would be purchased by the state of Chhattisgarh for meeting the peak energy demand of the state using green electrons and towards its renewable purchase obligations.
The project will ensure overall power stability and reliability by ensuring an efficient evacuation of power.
Funding of the project: This project has been financed by the Clean Technology Fund of the World Bank and other long-term finances.

Need for battery storage of solar energy

One of the limitations of Solar energy is that it produced only in the daytime. This problem could be addressed by storing solar energy into battery systems.
The energy used in the battery systems can be used later when there is peak demand (often in the evenings).

Bifacial solar modules

Bifacial solar modules produce solar power from both sides of the panel. In contract, monofacial solar cells produces electric energy only when photons impinge on their front side.
Bifacial solar cells can make use of albedo radiation from the bottom and using diffused sunlight to be used.
Bifacial solar cells come with advantages such as higher energy output and lower installation costs.
Bifacial solar cells have greater durability as both sides are resistant to ultra-violet light and potential-induced degradation is also reduced when the bifacial module is frameless.

Clean Technology Fund

Clean Technology Fund provides large-scale financial resource for investing in clean technology projects in low and middle-income countries.
They contribute to the demonstration, deployment and transfer of low-carbon technologies with significant potential for reducing long-term greenhouse gas emissions.
This is a fund under Climate Investment Fund.
Clean Investment Fund has also established Clean Technology Fund Parallel Fund (CTFPF) which has been established in 2022. This is a parallel and associated fund of the CTF. This fund is used to accept new loan contributions in support of CTF activities in accordance with allocations made by CTF Trust Fund Committee.

Climate Investment Funds (CIF)

CIF is one of the largest multilateral climate funds in the world to mobilise finance for low-carbon, climate-resilient development at scale in developing countries.
Climate Investment Fund comprises of two funds – (i) Clean Technology Fund (ii) Strategic Climate Fund.
Funds under Strategic Climate Fund are:
- Pilot Program for Climate Resilient (PPCR)
- Scaling Up Renewable Energy Program in Low Income Countries (SREP)
- Forest Investment Program
- Global Climate Action Programs

Payment Security Mechanism to be introduced for e-Buses

Context: Finance Minister announced that government will introduce payment security mechanism for encouraging greater adoption of e-buses for public transport. In 2023, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs had introduced the PM eBus Sewa Scheme to boost India's electric mobility infrastructure in urban areas by supporting deployment of 10,000 electric buses through PPP model.

About PM eBus Sewa Scheme

The scheme aims to increase the modal share of electric bus based public transport in India.
It has two-components:
1. Segment A: Augmentation of City Bus Services and Associated Infrastructure: Aims to augment city electric bus operations by extending Central Assistance for 10,000 electric bus operation on PPP model, bus depot and behind the meter power infrastructure.
2. Segment B: Green Urban Mobility Initiative (GUMI): Aims to support implementation of GUMI projects for contemplating bus services and demonstrating reduction in GHG emissions in urban areas. It will include support for implementation of National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) based Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS), bus priority infrastructure etc.

Eligible Cities: 169 cities are eligible to benefit under the scheme. The cities will be selected through a 'challenge method'. Maximum number of bus to be allocated to different category of cities and central assistance per kilometer will be by the following method:

Central Assistance for bus operations

Note: Large metropolitan cities with population more than 1 crore are not eligible under the scheme.

Central Assistance of ebuses on PPP model in urban areas will be provided on per kilometer basis for 10 years or upto March 2037, whichever is earlier.
CA will be provided for assured kilometers and if buses operate less than the assured km, CA will be released in proportion to rate applicabel to under-utilised km. Operations beyond the assured kms will be borne by the city.
All India aggregation of ebus operations will be done by Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) on Gross Cost Contract (GCC) - wet lease model.
On furnishing Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF) Certificate for scrapping buses, equivalent number of buses may be considered for allotment.
Payment Security Mechanism (PSM): According to the Scheme Guidelines, Payment Security Mechanism is part of the scheme. State Guarantee is to be provided for payment of bus operations and States/UTs will agree to PSM being developed by GoI. Payment Security will be provided to the Operator as per an agreement between

Need for Payment Security Mechanism

A Payment Security Mechanism is a funded capital reserve that provides interest free working capital to its beneficiary projects in the case of a default event.
Currently, around 90 Public Transport Authorities (PTAs/STCs/SPVs) operate around 1.50 lakh buses in India.
Around 27,000 buses operate in urban areas while the remaining operate in 1.23 lakh buses serve intercity and district routes, catering to about 7 crore passengers daily.
Cumulative losses of PTA stood at around Rs 1,22,300 attributed to low tariffs and high operational costs and low overall cost recovery for PTAs remaining around 74%.
Thus, to address concerns like delays in payments and weak financial conditions of STUs/STCs, Ministry of Heavy Industry has proposed to introduce a Payment Security Mechanism similar to SECI for solar power operators.
USA has committed to contribute $150 million (Rs 1,231 crore) grant for payment security mechanism to PTAs. Rest is expected to be contributed by Government for creation of Rs 3,453 crore payment security mechanism.

Benefits of Payment Security Mechanism:

Reduces the perception and quantum of risk of OEMs/operators.
Assured payment and de-risking of payments to the operators/OEMs.
Improves credit rating of operators/OEMS and enables them to borrow at lesser interest rates.
Foster widespread adoption of ebuses in India.

Proposed Payment Security Mechanism (PSM) for PM eBUS SEWA Scheme

Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) for creating Payment Security Mechanism for electric buses funded by GOI Schemes by facilitating a dedicated Payment Security Fund (PSF).
The scheme has two components:
- Payment Security to the operators/OEMs as per the concession agreement signed between Public Transport Authority (PTA) and the operators/OEMs for procurement and operation of e-buses.

Consent of State/UT for Direct Debit Mandate (DDM):

Triggering of Payment Security Mechanism: In case of delay/non-payment (default by PTA) of bill by PTA within the prescribed time as per concession agreement.
Disbursement from Payment Security Fund (PSF) by CESL: CESL will approve the disbursement of funds in the escrow to the extent of default.

Repayment Mechanism of PSF by PTAs:

PTAs will repay the entire amount along with bank interest within 90 days from date of disbursement from PSF.
In addition, Late Payment Surcharge @3% per annum based on number of days of delay will be applicable to PTA.

Invocation of DDM by RBI:

If the PTA does not reimburse the PSF even after 90 days, CESL will report the matter to Steering Committee of PSM under MHI to invoke DDM.
Based on the committee's recommendation, MHI would invoke DDM by informing RBI. The RBI would debit the entire amount from the current account of State/UTs and transfer the same to PSF.

Importance of the PM eBUS SEWA scheme

Contribute to decarbonization of transport sector reducing to greenhouse gas emissions.
Help India to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
Mainstreaming of electric buses in the urban mass transport.
Reduce the usage of diesel, which is the most common fuel used by buses thus protecting from pollution and imports of crude oil saving precious forex reserve.
Promote domestic manufacturing of ebuses.

About Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL)

CESL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL).
It is investing in clean energy and clean transportation for delivering affordable and reliable energy at scale.
CESL focuses on business models focusing on optimising assets, monetising and stacking multiple values and using innovative financial structures to deliver at scale.
Core focus of CESL is on promoting electric mobility in India and increase rural energy access.

Key Program of CESL:

Gram Ujala Program
National E-Mobility Program
Electric Vehicle Public Charging Infrastructure
PM eBUS SEWA Scheme

Global Framework on Chemicals

Context: At the fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5) in Bonn (Germany), world leaders agreed to Global Framework on Chemicals. The framework provides a vision for a planet free of harm from chemicals and waste. The framework has outlined 28 targets that aim to improve the sound management of chemicals and waste. The Global Framework on Chemicals is expected to complement SDGs, Biodiversity Protection and curb plastic pollution.

Strategic Objectives of Global Framework on Chemicals

Objective A: Legal frameworks, institutional mechanisms and capacities are in place to support and achieve safe and sustainable management of chemicals throughout their lifecycle.
Objective B: Comprehensive knowledge, data and information are generated, available and accessible to all to enable informed decisions and actions.
Objective C: Issues of concerns are identified, prioritised and addressed.
Objective D: Safer alternatives and innovative and sustainable solutions in product value chains are in place to maximise benefit and prevent or minimize risks to human health and environment.
Objective E: Enhanced implementation occurs through increased and effective resource mobilisation, partnerships, cooperation, capacity-building and integration into all relevant decision-making processes.

Salient features of Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC)

GFC is a multi-stakeholder approach enabling governments, civil society, industry to support action on the ground.
Outlines 28 targets that aim to improve the sound management of chemicals and waste.
Creating a regulatory environment by 2030 to reduce chemical pollution and implement policies to promote safer alternatives.
Industry has committed to managing chemicals that reduces chemical pollution and adverse impacts by 2030.
Phasing out of highly hazardous pesticides in agriculture by 2035where risks have not been managed and safer alternatives are available.
Responsible management of chemicals in various sectors - including industry, agriculture and healthcare.
Calls for prevention of illegal trade and trafficking of chemicals and waste.
Implementation of national legal frameworks for frameworks for management of chemicals.
Enhancement of transparency and access to information regarding chemicals and their associated risks.
Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC) is a successor to the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM), which has helped guide use of chemicals in the last 15 years.
Funding for the implementation of Global Framework on Chemicals: To unlock the implementation of the GCF from different sources, Global Framework on Chemicals Fund will be set up as a voluntary, time-limited, that may include multilateral, bilateral and private sector sources. Global Framework on Chemicals Fund will be administered by UNEP.

Global Framework on Chemicals Fund (GFCF)

Global Framework on Chemicals Fund is a fund established for supporting Global Framework on Chemicals.
GFCF will be voluntary, time-limited fund that will accept funding from multilateral, bilateral and private sector sources.
Support from the GFCF will be provided to developing countries, least developed countries, small island developing states and countries with economies in transition to support the implementation of the Global Framework on Chemicals.
Administration of the Fund: Executive Director of UNEP will establish and manage a trust fund to support the Global Framework on Chemicals.

Global Alliance on Highly Hazardous Pesticides

This Alliance aims to take effective measures to phase out highly hazardous pesticides in agriculture and where safer and affordable alternatives are available and promote transition to and make available those alternatives.

It is a voluntary multi-stakeholder initiative under auspices of the following organisations: Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), International Labour Organisation (ILO), United Nations Development Program (UNDP), United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and World Health Organisation (WHO).

Objectives of Global Alliance on Highly Hazardous Pesticides

Raising awareness of human health and environmental impacts of highly hazardous pesticides.
Identifying and promoting safer and sustainable agricultural practices, including agroecology, integrated pest management and use of non-chemical alternatives.
Sharing examples of countries having successfully phased out highly hazardous pesticides.
Supporting low- & middle-income countries to strengthen national regulatory frameworks and phase out highly hazardous pesticides in agriculture and to promote transition to and make available those alternatives.
Mobilizing support for farmers and agricultural workers in their transition from the use of highly hazardous pesticides.
Supporting agri-food supply chain in a transition from highly hazardous pesticides to safer and affordable alternatives.

National Transit Pass System (NTPS) for timber, bamboo and other forest produce

About National Transit Pass System (NTPS)

NTPS system provides seamless issuance of transit pass and is envisioned as 'One Nation, One Pass' system. This system helps in monitoring and keeping records of transit permits for inter-state and intra-state transportation of timber and bamboo from private lands/government/private depot and other minor forest produce.
States have exempted some species grown on private land from the purview of transmit permits while other species still need permits even if it is grown on private land. These two categories have been dealt with in the system. Application will move to concerned Range Forest Office.
Transit pass for transit of regulated species in the originating state: Transit pass is required for species which are not exempted by a state government.
No-Objection Certificate for transit of exempted species in the originating state: If an applicant wants to transport a species which is exempted from transit pass in origin state but it is not exempted en-route states or destination state, applicant may apply for NOC for hassle free movement.
Transit permits will be issued for tree species which are regulated, while users can self-generate No-Objection Certificates for exempted species.
Currently, 25 States and UTs have joined the unified permit system, streamlining interstate business operations for producers, farmers and transporters.
NTPS offers seamless transit permits, managing records for both inter-state and intra-state transportation of timber, bamboo and other forest produce obtained from various sources like private lands, government owned forest and private depots.
The QR coded transit permits generated under NTPS will allow check gates across various states to verify the validity of the permits and allow seamless transit.

Transit system before introduction of National Transit Pass System

Prior to the introduction of NTPS, obtaining transit permits from different states along the route was a time-consuming process, causing hurdles in transporting timber and forest produce across the states.
Each state has its own transit regulations which meant that in order to transport timber or forest produce across states, the transporter was required to get a separate transit pass issued in each state.

Benefits of National Transit Pass System

Expedite issuance of transit permits for timber, bamboo and other minor forest produce without physically going to forest offices.
Replace manual paper based transit system by online transit system.
One permit for whole India for transit of timber, bamboo and other minor forest produce for ease of doing business.
Seamless movement across state borders for origin to destination through help of MobileApp.
Prevent hardships of timber and bamboo producers, farmers and transporters in obtaining permits and at forest check posts.
Promotion of agro-forestry activities.
Saving of transportation cost and time which will benefit farmers and traders and will in turn help in increasing farmer's income.

Ethanol Blending in Petrol

Context: As more than 100 countries at COP28 in Dubai pledged the tripling of global renewable energy capacity by 2030, India faces a tightrope walk with regard to its ethanol blending target. While ethanol blended petrol (EBP) increased from 1.6% in 2013-14 to 11.8% in 2022-23, the 20% target by 2025 has run into trouble with low sugar stocks in 2022-23 and the impending shortfall in sugarcane production this year.

Ethanol blending:

Ethanol blending in petrol refers to the practice of mixing ethanol, a type of alcohol/biofuel, with petrol to create a blended fuel.
- E10, is the most common blend, which consists of 10% ethanol and 90% petrol.
- E20, is a higher ethanol blend, which has 20% ethanol and 80% petrol.
Ethanol is naturally produced by the fermentation of sugars by yeasts or via petrochemical processes such as ethylene hydration.

Ethanol blending target:

India launched its ethanol blending programme (EBP) in 2003. It is aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on crude oil imports, cutting carbon emissions and boosting farmers’ incomes.
The National Policy of Biofuels 2018 provided indicative targets of 20% ethanol blending in petrol and 5% biodiesel blending in diesel by 2030.
Encouraged by the past 7 years performance under the Ethanol Blending Programme, the Government has advanced the targets of 20% ethanol blending in petrol from 2030 to Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2025-26.
- In 2022, India’s blending programme achieved the significant milestone of 10 per cent ethanol blending in petrol.
In India, biofuels are primarily associated with first-generation (1G) ethanol, which is sourced from food crops like sugarcane and foodgrains.

Benefits:

Reduce dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels: Ethanol is often produced from renewable sources such as corn, sugarcane, or other biomass. Blending ethanol with petrol helps reduce dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels.
- India's net import of petroleum was 185 million tonnes in 2020-21 costing USD 551 billion.
Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Ethanol contains oxygen, which can improve the combustion of fuel, leading to more complete burning and lower emissions of certain pollutants like Carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.
Efficiency: Ethanol has a higher octane rating than petrol, which means it can improve the octane level of the blended fuel. Higher octane levels can contribute to better engine performance and efficiency.
Farmer’s income: Ethanol produced from farm residue will boost farmers' income and also minimise air pollution by reducing stubble burning.

Challenges:

Food security:
- Lowering sugar stocks:
  - Industry body Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) has projected a 9 per cent fall in gross sugar production at 337 lakh tonnes for the 2023-24 marketing year starting (October-September). It has not estimated the diversion of sugar for ethanol production.
  - Cane growing districts in Maharashtra and Karnataka received as little as 56% of normal rainfall in 2023, as this year the monsoon was the weakest since 2018.
  - In what would be a major reversal after 2017, the growing pressures that could force India, which supplies 12% of globally traded sugar, to become a net importer from as early as the first half of 2025.
- Grain-based ethanol: Government is looking at a major transition towards grains-based ethanol for meeting the target particularly by developing an organised maize-feed supply chain for ethanol. This risks food security as more area under the food grains can be diverted for growing food grains for ethanol production.

Environmental concerns:
- Water-intensive agriculture: Growing sugar cane and using food grains for ethanol production have significant implications for groundwater depletion.
- Agriculture’s GHG Emissions: Diverting crops towards fuel production increases greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the agriculture sector, counteracting the goal of reducing emissions in the transport sector.
- No reduction in NOX emissions: Ethanol lessens emissions such as carbon monoxide. However, there is no reduction in nitrous oxides which is one of the major environmental pollutants.
Challenge of Scaling up: Balancing economies of scale with energy needs and costs for biomass collection and transport remains a challenge.
Storage: The ethanol production capacity in India has increased from 423 crore litres in 2019-20 to 947 crore litres in 2022-23. As in 2023, India might need an additional 8-10 billion litres of ethanol production capacity to achieve the 20% petrol-ethanol blending requirement.
Ethanol Movement between states: The non-implementation of the amended provisions of the Industries (Development & Regulation) Act, 1951, by all states poses a significant challenge to ethanol blending in India due to restrictions on inter-state movement of ethanol.

Way Forward:

Sustainable Biofuels: Sustainable biofuels, produced from crop residues and other low-impact sources, have a lower water and GHG footprint. Global Biofuels Alliance initiative aims to develop these sustainable alternatives and promote ethanol use.

Invest in public infrastructure: Government needs more investment in public infrastructure and transportation facilities to facilitate their use.
Alternative energy sources: For emissions reduction, alternative mechanisms should be adopted like- improved infrastructure for Electric Vehicles like charging infrastructure, low cost batteries, and additional renewable generation capacity, green hydrogen mission.

National Efficient Cooking Program & Energy Efficient Fans Program (EEFP)

Context: Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) has launched National Efficient Cooking Program (NECP) and Energy Efficient Fans Program (EEFP). These initiatives are aimed at revolutionizing cooking practices in India and emphasizing on the importance energy efficiency.

About National Efficient Cooking Program

NECP aims to distribute 20 lakhs non-solar/electricity-based energy-efficient induction cook stoves nationwide.
The induction based cookstoves to be distributed under the program offer a cost advantage of 25-30% over traditional cooking methods, promising both energy savings and cost-effective cooking solutions.
It is a sub-program under the Clean Cooking Scheme of EESL.
Implemented by EESL.
EESL has already been promoting clean and safe electric cooking to support India's Go-electric campaign.
EESL has partnered with Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) for large-scale deployment of induction cookstoves.

Significance of the scheme

Reduced energy consumption
Lower electricity bills for consumers
Contribute to India's green transition and carbon mitigation goals.
Reduced environmental impact of inefficient cooking methods, ensuring cleaner air and improved health for citizens.
Accelerate the acceptance and large-scale adoption of modern electric cooking devices in India.
Currently, cooking is based on biomass burning in rural areas and LPG or City Gas Distribution based in urban areas. LPG and CNG are largely imported by India. Shift to electricity-based cooking will improve India's energy security.
Many poor families are not able to afford the price of LPG cylinder. Hence, electricity-based cooking will reduce cooking cost especially for poor consumers.
Electricity based induction cooking has been seeing increased demand due to factors like modular kitchen, rising LPG costs and versatility of cooking with induction.
Higher safety and convenience of cooking on induction cookstoves.
Increased adoption of induction based cookstoves in various food outlets.

Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS)

MECS program researches the socio-economic realities of a transition from polluting fuels to energy-efficient electric cooking devices.

Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) is an eight-year research programme funded by UK Aid.

About Energy Efficient Fans Program (EEFP)

EEFP aims at deploying energy-efficient BLDC fans by distributing 1 crore ceiling fans.
Contemporary 5-star fans consume only 28-32W. However, Conventional fans typically consume 75-80 W. Thus, using them will lead to savings of electricity and reduced energy bills for consumers.
Mandatory star rating of ceiling fans: Bureau of Energy Efficiency, which is a statutory body, under the Energy Conservation Act has made star-labelling of ceiling fans mandatory from 1st January 2023.

Significance of Energy Efficient Fans Program

Ceiling fans contribute to 40% (Approximately) of total residential electricity consumption in India, accounting for over a quarter of India's overall electricity usage.
By replacing, all current fans with most efficient models, nearly 20% of total residential electricity consumption can be reduced.
Despite, large energy savings, adoption rate of 5-star energy efficient fans stands at a mere 5%. This indicates that widespread adoption of energy-efficient fans will lead to substantial energy conservation.
The EEFP program is expected to not only address the demand for new fans but also motivate existing ceiling fans users to upgrade to energy-efficient fans.
Contribute to India's green transition and carbon mitigation goals.

About Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL)

Energy Efficient Services Limited is a joint venture of PSUs under the Ministry of Power.
It functions under the Ministry of Power.
It is a leading Energy Service Company which aims to promote energy-efficient products like LED bulbs, tube lights, air conditioners, streetlights and electric vehicles.
EESL's transparent procurement processes, overseen by CVC, have enabled them to distribute millions of these products, resulting in substantial energy savings, reduced peak demand, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Ecomark Certification Rule, 2023

Context: Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MOEFCC) has notified an updation of Scheme on labelling of environment friendly products - 'Ecomark' aiming nudge individual choices and behaviors towards sustainability, in line with the philosophy of LiFE (Lifestyle of Environment). This will make consumers able to make choices among products and opt for products that are eco-friendly in their design, process etc.

About Ecomark Certification

Ecomark Certification Rules is for labelling of products which will have lesser adverse impacts on environment to encourage consumers to adopt such products and manufacturers for transitioning to production of Ecomark certified products for promoting sustainability.
Ecomark certification rules have been notified under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

Benefits of Ecomark Certification

Provide accreditation and labelling for household and other consumer products which meet certain environmental criteria.
Promote environmentally friendly products.
Promote resource efficiency & circular economy.
Preventing misleading information on environmental aspects of products
Enables industry to implement environment-friendly processes or production methods.

Application of Ecomark certification

Apply to any product which is produced or supplied for distribution or use in the market.

Criteria for Ecomark labelling:

Environmental criteria for each product/product category under Ecomark Rules shall be notified by Central Government.
Certification of Standards Body (national or international) for quality and safety or mandate of Quality Control Orders is a pre-requisite for Ecomark.
Products will be examined in terms of environmental impacts will include:
- Have substantially less potential for pollution, environmental impact, minimise or eliminate generation of waste and environmental emissions, than other comparable products.
- Recyclable and/or made from recycled products where comparable products are not.
- Make significant contribution to saving.
- Build consumer awareness on environmental issues and implication of their choices.
- Encourage manufacturers for transitioning to production of Ecomark certified products.
- Prevent misleading and deceptive information with respect to fraudulent use of Ecomark label.
Product primary criteria will include:
- Production or process including source of raw material.
- Use of natural resources
- Likely impact on environment
- Effect & extent of emissions/waste arising from production process.
- Disposal of product and its packaging
- Compliance to Extended Producer Responsibility regulations
- Utilisation of waste and recycled materials
- Suitability of recycling.
- Substitution of hazardous substances with safer ones.

Implementation mechanism of Ecomark rules:

Governance of Ecomark Rules is vested with a Steering Committee which comprises representatives from concerned ministries/departments, domain experts, representatives from industry associations, consumer groups and other relevant stakeholders. Functions of Steering Committee are:

Grant approvals for:
- Framework for institutionalising Ecomark Rules.
- Initiatives to incentivise Ecomark certified business operators.
- Notify product/product categories to be included in Ecomark Rules on recommendations of Ecomark Administrator.
- Recognition of domestic and international voluntary ecolabelling programs.
- Activities related creation of mass awareness for promotion of Ecomark Rules.
- Strategies for promotion and future development of Ecomark Rules.

Make recommendations to Central Government
- Determine product/product category to be included in Ecomark Rules.
- Inclusion of Ecomark products in public procurement under GeM portal.
- Allocation of resources for implementation of Ecomark Rules.
- Measures for adoption of Ecomark

Review and monitoring of implementation of Eco

Ecomark Administrator:

Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is responsible for implementation of the Ecomark Rules. Responsibilities of Ecomark Administrator are:

Develop guidelines for:
- Framework for institutionalising Ecomark Rules.
- Development of Ecomark Web portal and Knowledge/Database platform
- Designation of Ecomark Verifiers
- Appointing third parties for carrying out market surveillance activities.
- For appointing third parties for carrying out market surveillance activities.
- For fixing fees to be charged by Designated Ecomark Verifiers.

Identify products to be covered under Ecomark Rules
Constitute technical committees for different products under Ecomark Rules, develop specific criteria that a product shall comply to certified under Ecomark Rules.
Review existing state of knowledge and environmental criteria being followed domestically/in other countries.
Develop initiatives to incentivize Ecomark certified entities for adoption of Ecomark.
Register and empanel Designated Ecomark Verifiers, third party for market surveillance, audit and third party on Ecomark web portal.
Issue Ecomark certificate based on verification authorizing a person or a body of persons to mark its product with Ecomark or recognised eco label.
Review, suspend, or cancel a Ecomark certificate.
Review Ecomark criteria as per technology development and market evolution.
Compile annual reports submitted by all the Ecomark or other recognised eco label entities.
Assess domestic or international voluntary ecolabelling program, for recognition under Ecomark rules.
Assess international ecolabelling programs, for mutual recognition.
Direct Ecomark Certificate holders to pay compensation in case of non-compliance.

Designated Ecomark Verifiers

Administrator (CPCB) or Designated Ecomark verifiers will verify compliance with ecolabelling criteria for the award/renewal of certificate to products under Ecomark Rules.
Designated Ecomark Verifiers shall be accredited entities.
Undertake conformity assessment including visiting factory, drawing samples, audit of factory, recommending for award/renewal of certification.