HPAS 2025 Q2: Climate Policy Analysis
Paris Agreement Withdrawal & India’s Mitigation vs Adaptation Focus
Question
Given below are two statements:
Statement I: The withdrawal of USA from Paris Agreement in 2025 will strengthen global climate action momentum.
Statement II: India has indicated a shift in its climate change approach by focusing less on adaptation rather than mitigation.
In light of the above, choose the correct answer:
Answer
Correct Option: (D) Statement I is incorrect and Statement II is correct.
Detailed Analysis
Statement I Analysis
❌ Incorrect. The USA withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in 2025 undermines global climate action by reducing collective ambition and financial support, rather than strengthening momentum.
Statement II Analysis
✅ Correct. India’s recent Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) emphasize mitigation measures (renewable energy targets, emissions intensity reduction) while adaptation funding and planning have received comparatively less focus.
Key Facts
- Paris Agreement: Adopted in 2015 to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels.
- USA Withdrawal: Markedly reduces funding pledges (Green Climate Fund) and diplomatic leadership.
- India’s NDCs:
- 40% cumulative electric power capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030
- 33-35% emissions intensity reduction by 2030 from 2005 levels
- Adaptation Fund contributions remain minimal
Exam Strategy Tips
- Memorize key dates and objectives of major climate treaties (Paris Agreement, Kyoto Protocol).
- Compare mitigation vs adaptation measures in each country’s NDC.
- Stay updated on recent policy shifts and national budgets for climate adaptation.
- Understand geopolitical impacts of major emitters’ treaty participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When did the USA withdraw from the Paris Agreement?
The USA officially withdrew on January 4, 2025, following the formal notification sent in late 2024.
Q2: What are mitigation and adaptation in climate policy?
Mitigation refers to efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while adaptation involves adjusting systems and societies to minimize harm from climate impacts.
Q3: Has India increased adaptation funding?
India has allocated some funds for climate resilience projects, but the bulk of its climate financing and policy focus remains on mitigation initiatives.
Q4: How does US withdrawal affect global climate finance?
It reduces contributions to multilateral funds like the Green Climate Fund, creating financing gaps for developing countries’ mitigation and adaptation projects.
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