FAQ: International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and Global Biofuels Alliance
1. What are the key climate action outreach bodies led by India?
India has taken a proactive role in global climate action by leading and creating three significant initiatives: the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the upcoming Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA).
2. What is the purpose of the International Solar Alliance (ISA)?
ISA aims to promote the use of clean and renewable solar energy for low-carbon growth, especially in developing and least developed countries. It envisions massive solar capacity growth and cost-effective energy solutions.
3. What is the goal of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)?
CDRI is dedicated to enhancing the resilience of infrastructure systems across the globe, particularly in vulnerable areas. It seeks to ensure sustainable development by collaborating with governments, UN agencies, multilateral banks, the private sector, and knowledge institutions.
4. What is the upcoming Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA)?
The GBA, set to be launched at the G20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi, aims to accelerate the adoption of cleaner biofuels globally and reduce reliance on petrol and diesel for transportation. It will emphasize the development of sustainable biofuels and promote their use in the transportation sector.
5. How are these initiatives showcasing India's global role?
These initiatives, led by India, position the country as a proactive player in consensus-driven global policymaking. They reflect India's commitment to sustainable development and showcase its efforts to address climate change on a global platform.
6. How successful has the International Solar Alliance (ISA) been?
While the ISA was ambitious and aimed to become a global platform for solar dialogue, some discontent has arisen. Critics suggest that the ISA has not effectively facilitated investment opportunities in geopolitically crucial nations, particularly in Africa.
7. What is the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) focused on?
CDRI, proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeks to strengthen infrastructure systems' resilience after disasters. It has showcased the potential of Indian-led initiatives to drive solutions in developing economies.
8. What does CDRI's Infrastructure for Resilient Island States initiative entail?
The initiative is designed to provide technical support for infrastructure challenges in 58 Small Island Developing States. The projects will be funded through a $50 million trust fund, supporting resilience in island nations.
9. What is the primary focus of the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA)?
GBA emphasizes the development of a global biofuels market and the acceleration of sustainable biofuel usage. It intends to facilitate global biofuels trade, strengthen markets, and provide technical support for national biofuels programs.
10. Why is India emphasizing the use of ethanol in the Global Biofuels Alliance?
India's focus on ethanol is driven by its role as the world's largest producer and consumer of sugar. By diverting sugarcane supplies to ethanol production, India aims to address supply-demand mismatches in its sugar industry and promote sustainable transportation fuel.
11. What is the role of NITI Aayog in the Global Biofuels Alliance?
NITI Aayog believes that a global alliance will enhance the role of biofuels in the international fuel market. The International Energy Agency projects a significant market value for biofuels by 2025, and India aims to play a dominant role in shaping this market.
12. Which countries are reluctant to join the Global Biofuels Alliance?
Major energy producers like Russia, China, and Saudi Arabia have shown reluctance to join the GBA. India is actively engaging nations outside the G20 to ensure broader participation and support for the alliance.
13. How is India working to ensure broader participation in the Global Biofuels Alliance?
India's diplomatic missions are actively reaching out to a diverse range of countries to secure their participation in the GBA. This effort demonstrates India's commitment to creating a global consensus on sustainable biofuels.
14. What does the upcoming G20 Leaders' Summit imply for these initiatives?
With less than a month to go for the G20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi, officials from multiple countries are finalizing proposals for various initiatives. The launch of the Global Biofuels Alliance at the summit will further underscore India's commitment to global climate action.
These initiatives, collectively led by India, highlight the nation's proactive role in addressing global climate challenges, fostering sustainable development, and promoting cleaner energy alternatives.
