iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, honored with CERAWeek Global Energy and Environment Leadership Award on March 5, addressing the attendees said there are two ways to fight climate change and calamities — one is through policies and orders, while the other is through behavioral change, and asked the people to ‘fix’ themselves so the world will be a better place.
Delivering the keynote address at the CERAWeek 2021 through video conference, Modi thanked for being honored said, ‘It is with great humility that I accept CERAweek Global Energy and Environment Leadership Award.”
The prestigious CERAWeek Global Energy and Environment Leadership Award recognize the commitment of leadership towards the future of global energy and environment, and for offering solutions and policies for energy access, affordability, and environmental stewardship.
Highlighting the non-fossil sources in India, he said its installed capacity of electricity has grown to 38 percent. India is working to increase the share of natural gas from the current 6 percent to 15 percent by 2030. LNG is being promoted as fuel. He also mentioned the recently launched National Hydrogen Mission and PM KUSUM which promotes an equitable and decentralized model of solar energy generation.’
“This spirit of behavior change is a key part of our traditional habits, which teach us consumption with compassion. A mindless throw away culture is not a part of our ethos,” he said.
The Prime Minister also expressed pride in Indian farmers, who are constantly using modern techniques of irrigation, while noting that there is growing awareness on improving soil health and reducing the use of pesticides.
He remarked that today the world is focussing on fitness and wellness. “There is a growing demand for healthy and organic food. India can drive this global change through our spices and our Ayurveda products,” he added.
He also announced that the Centre is working on metro networks in 27 towns and cities for eco-friendly mobility.
The Prime Minister said for large-scale behavior change, the country needs to offer solutions that are innovative, affordable and powered by public participation, citing examples like people embracing LED bulbs, Give It Up Movement, increased LPG coverage, affordable transportation initiatives. He expressed happiness about the growing acceptance of ethanol across India.
Modi further noted that over the last seven years, India’s forest cover has grown significantly, the population of lions, tigers, leopards and waterfowls has grown. “These as the great indicators of positive behavioral changes,” he said.
He concluded, “Now is the time to think logically and ecologically. After all, this is not about me or you. It is about our planet’s future. We owe this to our coming generations.”
