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India's Climate Score Plummets 13 Spots
19 Nov
Summary
- India dropped 13 positions to 23rd in the Climate Change Performance Index.
- The decline is largely due to the absence of a coal exit timeline.
- New coal blocks are still being auctioned despite climate goals.
India's standing on the global stage for climate action has significantly weakened, as evidenced by its drop to 23rd place in the Climate Change Performance Index 2026. This 13-position slide from its previous ranking is largely attributed to the absence of a defined timeline for phasing out coal usage and the ongoing auctioning of new coal blocks.
Despite implementing strategies like the Bureau of Energy Efficiency and the Perform, Achieve and Trade mechanism, and achieving 50% of installed power capacity from non-fossil sources ahead of schedule, India's reliance on coal remains a critical concern. Experts noted that while renewable energy deployment is accelerating, issues like land conflicts and human rights violations associated with large projects also require attention.
The report emphasizes the need for a time-bound coal phase-down, robust social and environmental safeguards for renewable energy projects, and binding roadmaps for fossil fuel phase-out in key sectors. Addressing these challenges, alongside promoting inclusive consultation with affected communities, is crucial for India to align its domestic fossil fuel expansion with its international climate commitments.
