PM pushes for 'green credit' plans at COP28

Proposes to host UN climate summit in 2028 in India

- SHREYA JAI

Calling for a people-driven approach to climate action, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced a Green Credit Program (GCP) at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Dubai.

Under the initiative, participants undertaking COP28UAE eco-friendly actions will receive tradable green credits.

Modi, who became the first Indian prime minister to deliver the opening remarks at the UN climate summit, also proposed to host the event in 2028, or COP33.

The prime minister voiced the demands of developing nations while condemning the historical polluters, noting that the world does not have much time to correct the mistakes of the last century.

He also announced the launch of a global digital platform for ideas on climate action and innovations and a data repository for the same.

GCP is part of the LiFE mission, one of India's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) submitted to the UNFCCC as its climate action plan.

"In Glasgow (COP26), I presented to you the vision of LIFE Lifestyle for Environment. A study by the International Energy Agency says this approach can save 2 billion tonnes of carbon emissions every year. Today I am calling for another pro-planet, proactive and positive initiative that is Green Credits," Modi said, addressing the 197 member countries in Hindi.