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September 11, 2013 | 20:16 IST
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"Gujarat Chief Minister valedictory address at the Prof Bhikhu Parekh Seminar at Gandhinagar"
Gandhinagar, Wednesday: Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi today called for synergy between the storehouses of knowledge in the universities with the human resources for nation building.
He recalled that universities at Nalanda, Taxashila and Vallabhi are 1,800 years old. Ironically, theses centres of excellence had maintained their distinction even during the 800 years of invasions in the medieval period, but unfortunately lost the soul and spirit in the post-Independence period.
Mr. Modi was addressing the valedictory function of the Prof Bhikhu Parekh Seminar on ‘Qualitative Improvement in Higher Education’, organized by Gujarat Government’s Higher Education Department, at Mahatma Mandir here.
He called for the need to free the universities from the burden of administrative rigmarole to let them focus on teaching and research. He listed the areas in which India could excel and bridge the huge gap – notably in defence equipment, shipping and automobile sectors. He said that Gujarat Government has introduced training programmes for skill development, raising the importance of it is in Gujarat.
Mr. Modi drew comparison of today’s seminal seminar to invoke new ideas for higher education in the 21st Century with Swami Vivekanand’s spiritual speech eulogizing India’s spirit of ‘vasudhaiva kutumbakam’ that inspired America this day in the 19th Century – in sharp contrast to the inhuman terror attack that shocked America this day in the 20th Century.
He suggested the universities became self-reliant, shared their knowledge in events like Krishi Mahotsav and Jyotigram projects. He suggested law students take internship while learning and engineering students’ exposure in development projects, he asked. There is need to link the universities to explosion of knowledge around the world.
Lord Bhikhu Parekh welcomed the initiative to improve quality of higher education through at seminars through discussion. He inspired the students to go abroad for higher studies and research, exchange of faculties between Indian and foreign universities.
Others who spoke and attended the one-day seminar included Gujarat’s Education Minister Bhupendrasinh Chudasma, Industries Minister Saurabh Patel, Minister of State for Education Vasuben Trivedi, vice-chancellors and registrar of universities, academics and researchers.
India's Growing Global Influence in Climate Action and Sustainability
December 30, 2024
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India has emerged as a global leader in climate action, setting a benchmark for sustainability and innovation in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change. Through pioneering initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA), Mission LiFE, and groundbreaking renewable energy policies, India stands as a symbol of hope and commitment to a greener future.
PM Modi with President Emmauel Macron of France at the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Meet
PM Modi has been instrumental in driving this momentum, as highlighted by his speech at COP28 in Dubai in December 2023. This ethos resonates in India’s climate leadership, inspiring nations worldwide.
“Mother Earth is looking toward us to protect her future. We have to succeed.”
-PM Modi
India’s Standout Achievements in Climate Action
Aligning with Global Climate Goals
India is the only G20 nation on track to meet the 2-degree Celsius upper limit for global warming, as reported by The Jakarta Post. This remarkable feat defines the nation’s proactive policies and commitment to mitigating climate change. While other major economies struggle to meet their targets, India continues to prioritize sustainable practices, setting an example for the world.
A Model for Climate Policy
The World Economic Forum has lauded India’s progress on climate policy, describing it as a model for others to follow. The rapid expansion of solar energy—a cornerstone of India’s renewable energy strategy—has positioned the nation as the world’s fifth-largest solar market. Projections indicate that solar energy will contribute 30% of India’s power generation by 2040. Achieving this required overcoming decades of institutional constraints and balancing various policy objectives, showcasing India’s determination and innovative approach.
PM Modi with the beneficiary of the PM Surya Ghar Yojana
Consistent Recognition in Global Rankings
India has maintained its position in the top 10 of the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) for six consecutive years, currently ranking 10th. According to Climate Fact Checks, India’s progress in renewable energy policy, particularly large-scale solar projects and the PM Surya Ghar Rooftop Solar Scheme, has been pivotal. This consistency reflects India’s unwavering focus on renewable energy and sustainability.
Hosting the Global Biofuel Alliance Secretariat
India’s leadership in biofuel innovation took a significant step forward with the signing of a Host Country Agreement (HCA) with the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA). As reported by Daily News Egypt, establishing the GBA Secretariat in India will not only create job opportunities for Indian experts but also provide a platform to showcase the nation’s achievements in biofuels. This initiative reinforces India’s position as a hub for sustainable energy innovation.
PM Modi with other World Leaders at the launch of the Global Biofuels Alliance
Leading G20 Climate Action
India, alongside the United States, has made the most significant progress among G20 nations in implementing climate policies since the 2016 Paris Agreement. A study commissioned by The Guardian highlights India’s efforts in fostering global climate partnerships and advancing sustainable energy solutions, underscoring its pivotal role in shaping the global climate agenda.
PM Modi at the G20 Summit in Rio De Janeiro
Philanthropic Leadership in Climate Action
The World Economic Forum emphasizes India’s philanthropic contributions to climate action, noting that the nation’s approach to aligning socio-economic development with sustainability sets a precedent for other emerging economies. India’s efforts demonstrate that progress can be inclusive, equitable, and environmentally responsible.
Re-Election as President of the International Solar Alliance
India’s re-election as President of the ISA highlights its impactful work in advancing global solar energy adoption. Under PM Modi’s leadership, India has boosted investments in essential solar projects, including mini-grids, solidifying its role as a global leader in solar energy.
India’s Bold Stance at COP29
At COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, India made headlines by rejecting a finance deal proposed by wealthy nations. The agreement—raising $300 billion annually by 2035 to assist poorer countries in combating climate change—fell significantly short of the $1.3 trillion demanded by developing nations. Calling the funding “a paltry sum,” India criticized the lack of genuine commitment from affluent countries. This bold stance highlights India’s advocacy for equitable climate financing and its determination to hold developed nations accountable.
Transforming Challenges into Opportunities
India’s rapid progress in renewable energy, particularly solar and biofuels, showcases its ability to transform challenges into opportunities. From harnessing the power of the sun to fostering global alliances, India’s initiatives are paving the way for a sustainable future.
Global Media Coverage of India’s Climate Leadership
India’s climate achievements have garnered widespread international recognition:
Le Monde (2 November 2024): Highlighted India’s innovative climate policies and leadership.
Reuters (16 December 2024): Covered India’s progress in renewable energy and biofuel initiatives.
Financial Times (15 August 2024): Analyzed India’s role in global climate action.
The Wall Street Journal (31 May 2024): Praised India’s advancements in solar energy and international partnerships.
Leading the Global Charge Towards a Greener Tomorrow
India’s climate leadership reflects its visionary policies, innovative strategies, and unwavering commitment to sustainability. From championing solar energy adoption and biofuel innovation to advocating for equitable climate financing, India has become a global torchbearer for climate action.
As the world faces the pressing realities of climate change, India stands as a beacon of hope, proving that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. By inspiring nations through its achievements, India reinforces the belief that sustainable development is not just a goal but a shared global responsibility. Together, the world can march toward a greener, more equitable future.
