September 3, 2025

New Delhi is buzzing with green energy excitement! At the 20th Global Sustainability Summit by CII, India's Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, gave a fiery speech on Tuesday, proudly declaring India as one of the best performers among G20 nations in meeting sustainability promises. He highlighted the crucial role of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in making COP21 a landmark success. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a very important role in making COP21 a success. Without his active participation, without him weighing in with the developed nations to contribute to the sustainability efforts of the less-developed countries, probably COP21 could not have come to fruition," Goyal said. The PM united the Global South, pushing for climate responsibility from all. India’s green journey is no less than inspiring! Since 2014, the country has increased its renewable energy targets five times and built a national grid working under the motto "One Nation, One Grid." Goyal shared that India is racing ahead, already hitting 50% renewable energy capacity well before deadlines. The target? A massive 500 GW by 2030, powered by homegrown "Make in India" products, strong manufacturing, and rapid innovation. Hold your hats! India offers round-the-clock renewable power at jaw-dropping prices—just Rs. 4.60 to Rs. 5.00 per kWh. Thanks to clear and transparent bidding, solar power prices tumbled from Rs. 7-8 to Rs. 2.41 per unit. Goyal stressed there’s no clash between using coal and renewables. Both can thrive together. Startups, listen up! Goyal urged young innovators to solve big problems like water harvesting and energy savings. Remember the UJALA scheme? Launched in 2015, it swapped old bulbs for energy-saving LEDs, proving small changes can spark big transformations. India stands strong and self-reliant. Goyal said, "India's supply chains are resilient, and the nation is not at the mercy of any other country choosing to switch on or switch off the tap." This Atmanirbhar spirit reflects the confidence of 1.4 billion Indians, from farmers and shopkeepers to entrepreneurs and youth, driving a whopping 7.8% GDP growth in just the first quarter this year. He proudly noted India's rising global stature—contributing 18% of world growth, soon to be the third-largest economy, and already a $15 trillion giant in purchasing power parity. But growth must be green and inclusive, ensuring benefits reach the poorest too. Talking about taxes and trade, Goyal sees GST reforms boosting demand, with strong government support for infrastructure. Challenges? Of course, but India’s strength to face uncertainty grows every day. Sustainability means more than renewables, Goyal said. It’s about using water wisely and tackling climate risks like floods caused by poor city planning—turning threats into opportunities for growth. He shared a striking fact from PM Modi: less than 1% of India’s textile waste is recycled, while rich nations pay top rupees for recycled goods. Cleaning oceans and rivers can protect aquaculture and create value from waste. Goyal slammed developed countries for breaking their Paris promises. "The developed world has let us down very badly," he said, noting trillions committed in finance have not arrived. Finally, Goyal called for teamwork, saying, "India's future is safe, secure, and resilient, resting on sustainability, quality, and inclusivity." India is sealing big trade deals with Mauritius, Australia, UK, UAE, and talking with the EU and the US. With a vision to innovate daily, he highlighted a smart idea shared by the PM—auto-switching street lights synced to sunlight to save power effortlessly. Goyal summed up, "With the effort of 1.4 billion people, meeting the aspirations of a young India, I am very confident that India's future rests on sustainability and high-quality growth that reaches everyone." The Amrit Kaal journey to 2047 is set to be a green, prosperous adventure!

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Tags: India sustainability, Piyush goyal, Renewable energy, Cop21, Make in india, Climate change,