India’s Race to Net Zero: Ambitious Goals or an Achievable Reality by 2070?

In a historic announcement at COP26 in Glasgow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India would reach net zero carbon emissions by 2070. The statement put India among the growing list of nations pledging long-term carbon neutrality to fight the climate crisis.

But as the world’s third-largest emitter of CO₂, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion and growing energy needs, can India truly deliver on this promise? This article unpacks India’s net-zero roadmap, the obstacles in the way, and the sectors that will play a critical role.

What Does "Net Zero" Mean?

“Net zero” refers to a balance between the greenhouse gases emitted and those removed from the atmosphere. Achieving net zero involves reducing emissions drastically and offsetting any remaining emissions through carbon sinks like forests or technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS).

India’s 2070 target, while two decades later than the 2050 target set by the US and EU, considers its development needs and historical emissions, which are relatively lower than those of developed countries.

India’s Net Zero Roadmap: The Five Pillars Announced at COP26

At the UN Climate Summit, India laid out a five-point agenda for a sustainable future:

1. Reach 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030

2. Meet 50% of total energy requirements through renewables

3. Reduce total projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030

4. Lower the carbon intensity of the economy by 45%

5. Achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2070

These commitments are consistent with the updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, filed with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The Major Sectors Driving Emissions—and Their Role in the Transition

1. Energy Sector: The Heart of the Challenge

The energy sector contributes nearly 73% of India’s greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). Coal, the backbone of India’s electricity generation, powers nearly 70% of its energy needs.

Transition Path:

• Renewable Energy Expansion: India is already the world’s fourth-largest renewable energy market. Projects like Rewa Solar Park and the International Solar Alliance are key.

• Green Hydrogen: Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, India aims to produce 5 MMT of green hydrogen annually by 2030.

2. Transport: Electrification and Efficiency

With rising vehicle ownership, the transport sector is another key emitter. Electrifying vehicles and improving fuel efficiency are vital.

Transition Path:

• FAME II Scheme: Offers subsidies for EVs and charging infrastructure.

• Urban Mass Transit: Initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission promote sustainable urban mobility.

3. Agriculture: A Complex Sector to Decarbonize

Agriculture is a non-negligible source of methane and nitrous oxide, primarily from livestock and fertiliser use.

Transition Path:

• Climate-resilient farming via programs like PM-KUSUM, which encourages solar pumps and decentralised energy.

• Soil carbon enrichment and improved manure management can reduce emissions over time.

4. Industry: Hard-to-Abate But Crucial

Steel, cement, and chemical industries are tough to decarbonise due to process emissions.

Transition Path:

• Energy Efficiency Programs under the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)

• Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) R&D funded under the Department of Science and Technology (DST)

Obstacles to Overcome

1. Financing the Transition

Achieving net zero requires an estimated $10 trillion investment, as per the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW).

While India expects foreign aid and climate finance under the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities", actual inflows have been minimal. The Green Climate Fund has been underdelivering on commitments to the Global South.

2. Balancing Development and Decarbonisation

India still faces enormous developmental challenges: poverty, access to reliable electricity, and job creation. Meeting these needs while staying on a low-carbon path demands careful policy design and execution.

3. Lack of Carbon Pricing Mechanism

Unlike the EU, India has no national carbon trading market—though pilot initiatives are underway. Without carbon pricing, industries have little incentive to decarbonise at scale.

Are There Success Stories?

Yes, and they are growing.

• Gujarat’s Solar Rooftop Revolution: Over 2 GW of rooftop solar capacity installed, thanks to subsidies and net metering.

• Delhi’s EV Policy: A model for other cities, offering purchase incentives, scrappage benefits, and charging subsidies.

• Sikkim: India’s first fully organic state, demonstrating climate-conscious agricultural practices.

These examples prove that India can innovate and lead, especially with the right mix of regulation, technology, and community engagement.

What Can Accelerate the Net Zero Mission?

1. Stronger Public-Private Partnerships
   India must attract private investment through de-risking mechanisms, green bonds, and tax incentives.

2. Scaling R&D in Clean Tech
   Indigenous innovation in batteries, hydrogen, storage, and CCU must be prioritised.

3. Just Transition Plans
   Protect livelihoods of workers in fossil fuel industries. The Just Transition Centre framework could be adapted for India’s coal belt.

4. Transparent Tracking
   Platforms like India’s GHG Platform must be strengthened for data-driven governance.

Conclusion: Hope on the Horizon, But No Time to Waste

India’s net zero target is bold, timely, and necessary—but ambition must meet action. The 2070 pledge is not merely about reducing emissions; it’s about reshaping how India grows, consumes, and governs.

As the world watches, India's ability to lead a green transition while uplifting millions out of poverty could serve as a blueprint for emerging economies. The road is long, but with a clear strategy and unified political will, it is achievable.