Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, speaking at the India Climate Summit in a conversation with Times Group Editor-in-Chief Navika Kumar, firmly defended India鈥檚 climate track record, asserting that the country has always been part of the solution, not the problem, when it comes to the global climate crisis. The Environment Minister explained that the current rise in global temperatures is primarily due to historical carbon emissions by developed countries. 鈥淭he developed nations, through their industrial growth and consumption-heavy lifestyles, have contributed the most to carbon emissions. Their per capita energy consumption remains the highest, which continues to fuel the climate crisis,鈥 he said. He further emphasised that these nations must now step up and fulfill their responsibilities by ensuring climate finance for developing countries and facilitating technology transfers. Despite the lack of promised support, he noted that India, with a population of 1.4 billion, has taken a balanced approach, prioritising both ecology and economy. 鈥淓ven without sufficient international resources, we have strengthened our domestic capacity through adaptation programs and mission-based initiatives. From promoting individual responsibility through campaigns like Mission LiFE and the 鈥極ne Tree for Mother鈥 movement to enhancing institutional efforts, India has made consistent progress,鈥 Yadav said. Referring to India’s commitment under global frameworks, Yadav highlighted the country’s leadership in submitting Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and pushing for renewable energy expansion. On the issue of energy use and lifestyle reforms, such as controlling air conditioner temperatures, Yadav noted that such changes would take effect gradually and must be aligned with India’s socio-economic conditions. “We must balance access to energy with sustainability. That’s the principle of CBDR鈥擟ommon But Differentiated Responsibilities鈥攚hich guides our climate commitments,” he added. India Climate Summit 2025 The second edition of the India Climate Summit was inaugurated by Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. He, along with other dignitaries, lit the ceremonial lamp, marking the beginning of high-level discussions on climate action. Organised by Times Network, the summit brings together leaders to drive sustainable solutions