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?

The 26th Conference of the Parties (COP-26) to the UNFCCC, held in Glasgow in 2021, sought to accelerate global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C under the Paris Agreement.

Major Outcomes of COP-26

Recognition of Climate Emergency – Countries reaffirmed the goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C.

Accelerating Climate Action

Countries acknowledged this as a critical decade, requiring 45% CO₂ reduction by 2030 to reach net-zero by mid-century.

They agreed to submit stronger NDCs by 2022, and an annual NDC synthesis report.

For the first time, parties agreed to phase down unabated coal and phase out inefficient fossil-fuel subsidies, though language was weakened from “phase-out” to “phase-down.”

Urged immediate fulfilment of Climate Finance Commitments by Developed countries

Countries agreed to double adaptation finance for developing nations and launched a Global Goal on Adaptation work programme.

Completing the Paris Rulebook – Consensus achieved on Article 6 (carbon markets), Enhanced Transparency Framework, and common reporting formats.

Strengthening of the Santiago Network for technical assistance and launch of the Glasgow Dialogue on funding arrangements for loss and damage.

Major Side Deals & Announcements

Forests: 137 countries committed to halt and reverse deforestation by 2030.

103 countries joined the Global Methane Pledge to cut emissions by 30% by 2030.

Zero-Emission Vehicles: Over 30 countries and major automakers committed to new zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035/2040.

India’s Commitments at COP-26

Panchamrit – Five Key Climate Targets

500 GW of non-fossil electricity capacity by 2030

50% of energy requirements from renewables by 2030

Reduction of emissions intensity of GDP by 45% (from 2005 levels) by 2030

1 billion tonnes reduction in projected carbon emissions by 2030

Net-zero by 2070

India, along with the UK, launched the Green Grids Initiative – One Sun, One World and One Grid mission to connect grids

Call for Climate Justice & Equity – India emphasised Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR-RC) and demanded enhanced finance and technology transfer from developed countries.

The mantra of LIFE- Lifestyle for Environment as a mass movement for Environment Conscious Lifestyles.

The summit produced new “building blocks” to advance implementation of the Paris Agreement for sustainable, low-carbon pathway forward.