India underscores South–South cooperation in global environmental action at UNEA-7

New Delhi/ Nairobi: Warning that many developing nations still lack the means to meet global environmental obligations, the Minister of State for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh pressed UNEA to deliver outcomes that provide real support through finance, technology transfer and capacity-building.

Delivering India’s National Statement at UNEA-7 in Nairobi, Mr. Vardhan reaffirmed India’s leadership in global environmental platforms, including the International Solar Alliance, Global Biofuels Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and the International Big Cat Alliance, saying these initiatives reflect India’s strong commitment to South–South cooperation and amplifying the voice of the Global South.

The Minister underlined the importance of finance, technology transfer and capacity-building, noting that for many developing countries these remain essential enablers of effective implementation.

Mr Singh underscored that India approaches UNEA-7 with the conviction that global environmental solutions must remain people-centred and rooted in Equity, CBDR-RC, and National Circumstances, adding that “these principles enable ambition, foster trust, and strengthen multilateral cooperation.”

He highlighted India’s strong domestic track record in the last decade, stating that the country has “already reached 50% non-fossil installed electricity capacity, significantly ahead of our target”.

The Minister noted that India’s energy transition including solar, wind, hydropower, biofuels, green hydrogen, offshore renewables, and storage is reshaping our energy landscape.

He emphasized the nationwide movement ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ is a people’s movement that draws a powerful parallel between caring for our mothers and nurturing Mother Earth. Under this initiative, more than 2.6 billion saplings have been planted across the country, he informed.

Mr Singh also mentioned India’s river rejuvenation efforts, including Namami Gange, which demonstrates “the effectiveness of science-based and community-driven approaches to restoring ecological health”.

On resource efficiency, he underlined that India’s circular economy measures and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks in plastics, batteries, e-waste and end-of-life vehicles are promoting sustainable consumption and production.

The Minister conveyed India’s appreciation to Kenya and UNEP for the arrangements and noted that the UNEA-7 theme, “Advancing Sustainable Solutions” for a Resilient Planet – aligns strongly with India’s long-standing ethos.

He stated that the theme resonates with “India’s long-standing commitment to living in harmony with nature and with our national vision of inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient development.”

The Minister also highlighted Mission LiFE, describing it as a global movement under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership, “that promotes mindful consumption and encourages individual and collective action to adopt sustainable lifestyles”.

Reiterating that India’s environmental aspirations stem from its diverse landscapes and community needs, the Minister said these reflect the people’s consistent demand for “clean air, safe water, healthy ecosystems, and a secure future for the next generation.”