Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (Answer in 250 words)

COP26 in Glasgow attempted to close the ambition gap under the Paris Agreement while translating climate pledges into rules, finance and implementation.

Major outcomes

• The Glasgow Climate Pact called for stronger 2030 targets and recognised the need to pursue efforts toward 1.5°C.
• It requested phase-down of unabated coal power and phase-out of inefficient fossil-fuel subsidies, though language was weakened.
• Rules for Article 6 carbon-market cooperation, transparency and common timeframes for NDCs were advanced.
• Adaptation finance, loss and damage concerns and the unmet $100-billion annual finance promise gained prominence.
• Sectoral initiatives addressed methane, forests, vehicles and finance, with varying participation.

India’s Panchamrit commitments

• 500 GW of non-fossil electricity capacity by 2030.
• 50% of energy requirements from renewable sources by 2030.
• Reduce projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030.
• Reduce carbon intensity of the economy by more than 45% by 2030.
• Achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.

Significance

India linked ambition with equity, development space and climate finance, while implementation requires technology transfer, domestic investment and a just transition for workers and regions.

Glasgow Climate Pact; 1.5°C; Article 6; NDC; Panchamrit; carbon intensity; net zero 2070.