(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether any action plan has been checked out by Government to combat ill effects of climate changes in coordination with the global agencies; and

(d) if so, the features of such action plan?

a) whether any proposal for setting up of National Institute of Climate and Environmental Sciences is under consideration;

(b) if so, by when and where it would be set up; and

(c) whether it would also study the state of Himalayan Glaciers?

(d) whether the emission reduction targets for rich countries for a period beyond 2012, when the first commitment period of Kyoto Protocol comes to an end, have been set in Copenhagen;

(e) if so, the details thereof;

(f) if not, whether there is any hope of setting these targets in meetings proposed to be held in Bonn or in Mexico City or elsewhere; and

(g) whether the setting up of climate innovation centres in different countries for green technologies transfer was approved in Copenhagen?

b) if so, the details thereof;

c) whether any technologies, to meet the emission intensity reduction target of 20 to 25 per cent by 2020, have been offered by US; and

d) if so, the details thereof and to what extent the setting up of climate research centres is beneficial for India?

e) whether India and Bangladesh have jointly agreed to launch a programme to save the Sunderbans from the onslaught of climate change;

f) If so, the details in this regard; Whether due to climate change and rising sea levels, Sunderbans is facing the risk of disappearance; and

g) If so, to what extent joint efforts of India and Bangladesh will protect Sunderbans from disappearing?

(b) if so, the details thereof, year-wise and State-wise;

(c) whether Government has made a survey to assess the number of people in different States, including Bihar, who are vulnerable to climate-related extreme weather events; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the specific plan to reduce the vulnerabilities of people in the drought and flood-affected zones of Bihar which are highly sensitive to climate-related weather events?

(b) whether it is a fact that its principle and objectives continue to be valid and govern all of India’s future activities on the subject?

(b) whether the threat to all developmental areas has been quantified;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) the initiatives undertaken to face this challenge; and

(e) the consequential effect of such initiatives?

a) In what respect the Copenhagen Accord is better and in what respects worse than the Kyoto Protocol from our point of view?

(b) The major issues on which there is a lack of consensus at the global climate change talks and what is our position on those issues?

(b) if so, whether the role of concerned Ministries would be precisely defined to bring about comprehensive benefits of reduced greenhouse gas emission; and

(c) whether a preliminary study has been conducted in related fields like organic cultivation to reduce methane emission, better efficiency of coal plants, mileage-based efficiency entrusted with R&D activities?

(b) whether per capita emission norms are likely to adversely impact some parts of India in the future;

(c) if so, names of the parts and the likely damage; and

(d) the details of plan to tackle the damage?

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps taken by Government to check the impact of climate change on country`s water resources including major rivers and basins?

(b) the role played by his Ministry in this regard;

(c) whether Government proposes to prosecute the persons responsible to create such scare; and

(d) if no decision has been taken so far in the matter, whether government would consider exercising the option in view of tremendous tension created by some individuals causing mental torture to the people of this country?

(b) if so, the details of the issues discussed and finalized during the meeting

(b) if so, how Government is planning to address this grave problem?

(b) whether Government has given its consent to many new elements which emerged from the accord; and

(c) whether India had more to loose than to gain from the above mentioned accord

(b) whether there is any agreement on how much individual countries would contribute to and benefit from such fund;

(c) whether this money will go to Copenhagen Green Climate Fund; and

(d) if not, who will monitor this fund?

(b) whether it is not for the first time that climate science relating to India has been found to be fallacious or incorrect and also the revelation that the data regarding melting of Himalayan glaciers was unverified has dented the image of IPCC; and

(c) what steps Government proposes to take to stop such misleading speculations by the UN institutions in future?

a) whether the country can further its climate resilience through a combination of measures and right incentives aimed at multiple levels of Government-local, State and national;

(b) if so, the details worked out, so far, in this direction; and

(c) the present status of Andhra Pradesh in this regard?

(b) if so, the reasons therefore; and

(c) the steps taken in this regard?

SHRI VIJAY
JAWAHARLAL DARDA

(b) if so, whether Government would try to arrive at a consensus among the nations, when Kyoto Protocol is to be discussed in Copenhagen in December, 2009 so that developing nations like China, India and Brazil etc. are able to achieve the objective that they are not forced to agree to the same targets as are imposed on developed countries as 65 percent of emission in stock of carbon already in the air came from industrialized nations; and

(c) the details of the steps currently being taken to meet the global warming menace?

(b) if so, whether Government propose to take up any modification of the Kyoto Protocol to precisely the adverse effect of the industrialized nation thereto and to refix their responsibility towards global warming; if so, the steps taken by Government in this direction?

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether Government has taken up the matter of melting of Himalayan Glaciers with other affected neighbouring countries; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

(b) whether it is also a fact that such cost would cause burden on the consumers; and

(c) if so, the steps proposed by Government to minimize the cost of installation of CCS in the Central and State run power utilities?

(b) if so, the details thereof?

A NATCHIAPPAN

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefore?

(b) if so, what steps Government propose to take in this regard?

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps Government is taking in this regard?

(b) The salient features of India’s commitments to the international forum towards global climate protection efforts;

(c) Whether Government is contemplating formulation of a comprehensive environment protection policy outlining both short term and long term measures duly stipulating road-maps for their implementations; and

(d) If so, the salient features thereof and if not, the rationale therefore?

(b) if so, the details of discussions held in the meeting and outcome thereof;

(c) whether the developed countries are pressurising India to be flexible on its stand; and

(d) if so, the latest stand of Government in this regard?

(b) if so, whether the multiple environmental crises, that confront the country, have created an alarming situation in many ways; and

(c) if so, the steps taken by Government to provide special assistance to the State Governments/UTs for the purpose?

(b) Technology to developing Nations by developed world have been fixed so that significant contributory efforts to combat global warming are made; and

(c) if so, whether India and China, who were at the core of global negotiations during August 2009 to finalize a successor to Kyoto Protocol, have made any progress towards achieving this objective?

(b) If so, the details thereof;

(c) Whether this threat is likely to cause large scale migration from India’s neighbouring islands and from Bangladesh; and

(d) If so, the details thereof along with action plan being worked on by Government to tackle this problem?

(b) If so, the details thereof;

(c) Whether millions of people are likely to face water crisis because of ground water and the melting of Himalayan glacier on the large scale would lead to heavy destruction in the Gangetic plain; and

(d) If so, the details thereof?

(b) whether, under the proposed National Mission on Empowerment of Women, Government is planning to include strategies to enhance the coping capacity of women to withstand the adverse impact of climate change and global warming with particular reference to water, fodder, fuel, wood and livelihood?

(b) is so, the details thereof in India, USA and England;

(c) whether Government is considering to take any measures to lessen the present level of emission in India; and

(d) if so, the facts thereof and the effects of said emission on the life of common man and agriculture in India?

(b) if so, the details of the talks held and the outcome thereof?

(b) the findings of reports and recent study and the response of Government thereto;

(c) the details of international deliberations made on this issue at various fora and consensus arrived at on different aspects of prevention, as well as handling the impact; and

(d) the collaborative role to be played by Government to address the issues and steps taken by Government to mitigate the challenge

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether Government is taking steps to address the challenges of climate change; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

(b) if so, the advantages and gains that have been secured at the talks for the developing nations and the assurances given by the developed industrialized nations for development of the developing countries; and

(c) the losses and liabilities that have been incurred by the developing nations as a result of the Bali talks?

(b) whether any steps are being taken by Government for protection of coastal areas; and

(c) if so, the details thereof?

(b) if so, whether we are mobilizing international support for continuance of Kyoto Protocol beyond 2012 which coincides with its expiry; and

(c) if so, any other international bodies’ agreements in operation under which India could get financial support to reduce global emissions?

(b) if so, whether initiatives are proposed/taken in co-ordination with other developing and developed countries to contain the adverse impact of climate change;

(c) if so, furnish the details thereof and what would be the outcome of such initiatives in quantitative terms such as reduction of emission levels, reduction in rising temperatures etc; and

(d) if not, explain the reasons therefor?

(b) if so, the salient features of the national action plan;

(c) the efforts of his Ministry to shift industries to low-carbon emission economies;

(d) whether involvement of private companies is depicted in the plan; and

(e) if so, the details thereof

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether Government has estimated the fund required for taking up various measures under this Policy; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

(b) if so, how many carbon credits would be available from India for trading at the International market;

(c) whether many countries like Japan ( 8 billion tonnes) are desirous of buying billion tonnes of carbon credits through global carbons exchange during the coming years; and

(d) the number of carbon credits required by us during the coming five years?

(c) if yes, the details of

(a) and

(b) above;

(d) whether any key knowledge institution have been identified apart from

(b) above to make them the centres of excellence in climate change related research; and

(e) if so, the details thereon?

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps taken by the Government to protect the power disruptions from the climate changes?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)
(a) to (c). Yes, Sir. The thirteenth Conference of Parties (COP-13) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the third Meeting of Parties (MOP-3) to Kyoto Protocol was held in Bali in December 2007.

The principal outcome of the Bali conference was to launch a comprehensive process called Bali Action Plan (BAP) that would enable the full, effective and sustained implementation of the UNFCCC through long-term cooperative action, now, up to and beyond 2012. It is expected that an agreed outcome would be reached and a decision adopted regarding BAP, at the fifteenth Conference of Parties (COP-15) to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark in December 2009. The Conference of Parties serving as Meeting of Parties at Bali also took crucial decisions in respect of the Kyoto Protocol. The Adhoc Working Group on further commitments of developed countries (beyond 2012) finally established a deadline of 2009 for the completion of its work and forwarding to COP-15 for a decision, its recommendations on quantified emissions limitation and reduction commitments of Annex I Parties (developed countries).

The decisions cover enhanced action on national/international action on mitigation of climate change; adaptation, which is a critical imperative for developing countries; technology development and transfer and provision of financial resources,
including “new and additional” resources. A major breakthrough of the Conference was on “transfer of technologies”. A positive outcome of the Conference was the Adaptation Fund finally made operational after years of stalemate on governance issues. It was decided that developing country Parties to the Kyoto Protocol that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change are eligible for funding from the Adaptation Fund. The Fund would assist developing countries in meeting the costs of adaptation. The Adaptation Fund shall finance concrete adaptation projects and programmes that are country driven and are based on the needs, views and priorities of eligible Parties.

The Bali Action Plan acknowledged enhanced national/ international action on mitigation of climate change including policy approaches and positive incentives on issues relating to reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries. It also noted the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries as pressed by India. It is expected that the decisions taken at Bali would enhance the implementation of the UNFCCC and as a responsible country, India will engage constructively in these negotiations.

(b) if so, the remedial steps Government propose to initiate in this regard?

(b) if so, the impact on above segments likely to occur in India, sector-wise;

(c) whether, recently, Government accepted the fact of impact of global warming on agriculture and irregular rain;

(d) if so, the details and measures taken; and

(e) the programme Government has launched to create awareness on global warming?

SUPRIYA SULE

NITHYANAND PRADHAN

# Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change has been constituted to coordinate national action for assessment, adaptation and mitigation of climate change.
# A National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was released by the Prime Minister on 30th June 2008. Under the National Action Plan on Climate Change, it is proposed to establish a permanent institutional mechanism that will play a development and coordination role. NAPCC outlines eight missions in specific areas of Solar Energy, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic knowledge for Climate Change.
# Expert Committee on Climate Change impacts, which is headed by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India has been constituted.
# Launched a high-priority Programme to address the Science issues of Global and Regional Climate Change with a well equipped state-of-the-art Center for Climate Change Research (CCCR) at Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune for inter-disciplinary research and training in the area of science of climate change. Prioritized R & D efforts are initiated to comprehensively understand the causes for the aforementioned changes in the southwest monsoon rainfall and to improve the rainfall predictions in all time scales.

(b) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken in this regard?

(b) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken in this regard?

(b) whether the Government proposes to formulate a new policy to set up a regulatory authority to achieve a judicious mix of privately owned passenger vehicles and public transport to ensure reduction in fuel consumption and fuel emission for protecting the fast deteriorating climate and its affect on human life and health

However, the National Action Plan does not propose setting up of regulatory authority to enforce any specific mix of privately owned passenger vehicles and public transport.

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the estimated expenditure likely to be incurred on such research;

(d) whether any agreement has been singed by the Government with some other countries in this regard; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF THE STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY, MINISTRY OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EARTH SCIENCES, MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE, MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIMENTARY AFFAIRS (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)

(a-b) Yes Madam.

India has already initiated a Research Program in 2007 with the thrust on
climate change in the Arctic Region, which surrounds the North Pole.The major objectives of the Indian Research in Arctic Region are as follows:

1. Study of the hypothesized teleconnections between the Arctic climate and the Indian monsoon by analyzing the sediment and ice core records from
the Arctic glaciers and the Arctic Ocean.

2. To characterize sea ice in Arctic using satellite data to estimate the effect of global warming in the northern polar region.

3. Research on the dynamics and mass budget of Arctic glaciers focuses on the
effect of glaciers on sea-level change and on the fresh input into fjords and embayments.

4. To carry out a comprehensive assessment of the flora and fauna of the
Artic vis-à-vis their response to anthropogenic activities. In addition, it is proposed to undertake a comparative study of the life forms from both the
Polar Regions in terms of environment.

(c) Till now India has spent 180.29 Lakhs towards the Artic Research while
in the current year a budgetary provision of 260 Lakhs has been provided.

(d-e) Yes Madam.

India has entered into MOU with Norwegian Polar Research Institute of Norway, for cooperation in science, as also with Kings Bay (A Norwegian Government owned company) at Ny-Alesund for logistic and infrastructure facilities for undertaking Arctic research and maintaining Indian Research base ‘Himadri’ at Arctic region

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;

(c) whether the Government has urged the agricultural scientists to conduct a study on the effect of climate change on the country`s agriculture; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken to safeguard Indian agriculture from the vagaries of climate change?

MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR)

(a) to (d): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF LOK SABHA
STARRED QUESTION NO.248 DUE FOR REPLY ON 21-07-2009.

(a) to (d): The 4th assessment report (2007) of Intergovernmental panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projected that the global food production potential could increase with increase in global average temperature upto three degrees, but above this could decrease the production of food grains. The modeling studies of Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) also predicted the likelihood of adverse affect of increase in temperature on production and productivity of food grains especially rice and wheat.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) initiated a Network Project on ‘Impact, Adaption and Vulnerability of Indian Agriculture to Climate Change’ at different ICAR Institutes/State Agricultural Universities during X Plan period. The Project aimed to study the impact of climate change on land & water resources, crops livestock and fisheries etc. Central Rice Research Instaitute (CRRI), Cuttack and Directorate of Rice Research (DRR), Hyderabad have been conducting Intensive studies on affects of Climate Change including increase in
temperature, carbon dioxide and other gases on production of rice and other crops.

National Wheat Programme of Directorate of Wheat Research, Karnal has been conducting research on development of high temperature tolerant wheat genotypes particularly for late sown conditions.

Superior genotypes possessing high temperature tolerance have been identified
and are being used in breeding programme for high temperature environments. Wheat varieties such as WH730, HD2808, RAJ3765, NW-2036,NW-1014, HW2045,
HD-2643, K-8962 that are heat tolerant and DBW 14, a thermo tolerant genotype are developed by ICAR. Ministry of Earth Sciences also launched a project “Integrated Agro met Advisory Services in the Country” from April 2007
for issuing district level weather forecast and agromet advisories to the farmers.
Furthermore, the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was released by the Prime Minister on 30th June, 2008 outlining a strategy to meet the challenges of Climate Change.

Under National Food Security Mission farmers are trained through Farmers Field
Schools for adoption of improved seed and better cultural practices for increasing the production of food grains.

(b) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, CONSUMER
AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a) Yes, Madam.

(b) The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has given the following details;

I Livestock (i). Outreach programme on Methane Emission has already been launched in the year 2008-09 with 8 collaborative centres to assess the methane emission from livestock under different production systems and to develop a data base on methane production and to develop nutritional/ bio-technological strategies to mitigate methane production.

I (ii). Network project on adaptation of livestock to impending climate changes through shelter management has already been launched in the year 2009-10 with 8 collaborative centres to develop model(s) for assessing the impact of
climate changes on different livestock species and to develop strategies for adaptation of livestock through shelter management. The main aim of the project is to reduce thermal stress by providing cost effective shelters for enhancing
animal production.

II Fisheries

Marine Sector (i) Marine Fishes such as Oil Sardine and Indian Mackerel are seen to be able to adapt to rise in sea surface temperature by extending distribution
toward? northern latitude and by descending to depths, These fishes confined to Kerala and Karnataka previously now form the catch of Maharashtra and Gujarat also,

(ii) Fishes like Threadfin breams have shifted the air spawning season to cooler months.

(iii) Plankton abundance has shifted towards cooler months.

(iv) Demographic details and infrastructure available in the fishing villages of maritime states are being collected. There are about 2643 fishing villages along the Indian coast, out of which 458 are within 100 m. distance from high tide, largest number in Kerala (about 200),

Inland Fisheries

(i) Assessment of impact of Climate change on Inland Fisheries resources in three river systems, Ganga, Mahanadi and Brahmani.
(ii) Breeding of Indian major carps which is during monsoon (June -July) and extend till September has been observed to be maturing and
spawning as early as March in the state of West Bengal and Orissa.

(b) if so, the details of the discussions held and the outcome thereof

MINISTER OF THE STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) & (b) The Sixth session of the Adhoc Working Group – Long Term Cooperative Action (AWG-LCA),the eighth session of the Adhoc Working Group – Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the thirtieth session of the subsidiary bodies of the
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place
from 1-12 June 2009 in Bonn.While the negotiations in AWG-LCA were aimed at
enhancing the implementation of the Convention through long term cooperative
action amongst the all Parties to the Convention in the areas of mitigation,
adaptation, technology and finance for Climate Change as per the Bali Action
Plan, the negotiations in AWG-KP were held for deciding the emissions reduction
commitments of Annex I Parties in the second Commitment Period (post – 2012)
under the Kyoto Protocol.

It is expected that an agreed outcome would be reached and a decision adopted
at the fifteenth Conference of Parties (COP-15) and fifth Meeting of Parties
(MOP-5) to the Kyoto Protocol to be held
in December 2009 at Copenhagen.

(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the names of the regions most affected by the climate changes;

(c) whether the Government has conducted any scientific study on the climatic changes caused by global warming and its adverse impact on the country;

(d) if so, the outcome thereof;

(e) the details of the discussions held on this issue at various international forums and the agreement reached therein; and

(f) the action plan of the Government to address the issue of climate change?

MINISTER OF THE STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, MINISTRY OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EARTH SCIENCES, MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINIDSTRY OF PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE, MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THEMINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIMENTARY AFFAIRS (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)

(a) to (f): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (f) OF THE LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION

NO. 170 FOR ANSWER ON 15th July, 2009

(a) There is no clear cause and effect established between global warming and tsunami,excessive rains and drought. Occurrence of Tsunamis primarily originate from undersea earthquakes. Monsoon rainfall varies on different spatial and temporal scales.

Extreme rainfall events that occur at some isolated places (viz. heavy rainfall
over Mumbai or in Rajasthan) are highly localized and are part of the natural variability of the Indian monsoon system itself. Although, some recent studies hint at an increasing frequency and intensity of extremes in rainfall during the past 40-50 years, their attribution to global warming is yet to be established. Moreover, the recent report of the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-AR4, 2007) and our country`s own assessment using regional climate models indicate that the extremes rainfall events are likely to be more frequent in the later part of the 21st century in the world including
India. As regards other extreme weather phenomena, there are many other reasons for their occurrence, which cannot always be related to climate change. The country has experienced 19 drought years since 1901. The drought years are given in Annexure A.

(b) Does not arise.

(c) – (d) Yes Madam. The observed trends are based on instrumental records over the past 130 years archived by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Details of the observed and projected changes in the climate were first reported in India’s initial National Communication (NATCOM) on Climate Change to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in June, 2004. This effort was coordinated by the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF), who are now working on the second NATCOM report.

# Although, the monsoon rainfall at all India level does not show any trend but on regional scale areas of increasing trend is discerned. It is not clear if this increasing trend in the heavy rainfall events is attributable to global warming.
# Mean annual surface air temperatures show a significant warming of about 0.5 degree C/100 years during the last century and recent data indicates a substantial acceleration of this warming after the 1990’s and is comparable to the global warming trend. The year 2006 was the warmest year on record since 1901.
# No significant long-term trends are reported in the frequencies of large scale droughts or floods in the summer monsoon season.
# The total frequency of cyclonic storms that form over the Bay of Bengal has
remained almost constant
# Analysis of past tide gauge records for the Indian coastline regions gives an
estimate of sea level rise of 1.30 mm/year.
# There is evidence that glaciers in Himalayas are receding at a rapid pace,
however it is unclear as to how much of this recession is attributable to climate
change, as glacial retreat is also due to natural long-term glacial-inter-glacial
cycles.
(e) India is engaged in the process of Climate Change negotiations and
participating in the Conference of Parties (COP) to the UNFCCC meetings. COP-8 was held in New Delhi. The twelfth Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC and the second Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol took place at Nairobi in December 2006.
The ongoing multilateral negotiations leading to COP-15 to be held in Copenhagen during December, 2009 are to enhance long-term cooperation on
Climate Change under the Bali Action Plan (BAP).
(f) The Government has undertaken the following steps in the area of Climate
Change:
# Constituted an Expert Committee on Climate Change impacts, which is headed by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India.
# Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change has been constituted to
coordinate national action for assessment, adaptation and mitigation of climate change.
# Launched a high-priority Programme to address the Science issues of Global
and Regional Climate Change with a well equipped state-of-the-art Center for
Climate Change Research (CCCR) at Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology
(IITM), Pune for inter-disciplinary research and training in the area of science of climate change.
# Under the National Action Plan on Climate Change, it is proposed to establish a permanent institutional mechanism that will play a development and coordination role. The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was released by the Prime Minister on 30th June 2008.
# The National Action plan outlines eight missions in specific areas of Solar Energy, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic knowledge for Climate Change. Eight National Missions form the core of the National Action Plan, representing multi-pronged, long term and integrated strategies for achieving key goals in the context of climate change. 

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;

(c) whether the UN is formulating any new policy for developing countries in this regard;

(d) if so, the details thereof and the time by which this policy is likely to be formulated;

(e) whether Delhi Sustainable Development Summit has been organised recently;

(f) if so, the details thereof including the number of participants, issues discussed therein and the outcome of the Summit; and

(g) the action taken by the Government to combat the climate change 

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) to (d) The thirteenth Conference of Parties (COP-13) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Bali in December 2007, launched a comprehensive process called Bali Action Plan (BAP) in order to enable the full, effective and sustained implementation of the UNFCCC through long-term cooperative action
amongst all Parties to the Convention, now, up to and beyond 2012. BAP calls upon developed and developing countries to address the global problem of climate change according to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. It is expected that an agreed outcome would be reached and a decision adopted regarding BAP, at the fifteenth Conference of Parties (COP- 15) to be held in December 2009.

As a responsible country, India is actively engaged in negotiations on various issues relating to BAP in order to protect India’s interests and advance the global efforts to address climate change.

(e) & (f) The Delhi Sustainable Development Summit (DSDS) was organized by The Energy & Resources Institute (TERI) from 5-7 February 2009. The summit saw participation from over 850 delegates and ministerial representatives from over 25 countries.The theme of this year event was ‘Towards Copenhagen: on equitable and ethical approach’. The summit proceedings included diverse opinions on climate change. As a part of DSDS, several events on varied themes like water, mitigation, energy efficiency, sustainable habitat, energy technologies and climate change were held highlighting the adverse impacts of climate change. Dialogues were held amongst the participants to facilitate consensus on possible solutions to address the issues relating to climate change.

(g) Under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister released the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) on 30th June 2008 that outlines India’s strategy to meet the challenge of Climate Change. It lays down steps that will enable the country to adapt to climate change and enhance the ecological sustainability of India’s development path. The NAPCC includes eight missions out of which five relate to ‘Adaptation’, two on
‘Mitigation’ and one is ‘Knowledge Mission’.The relevant Ministries are firming up the Mission Documents.

Prime Minister’s Council has been set up to coordinate the national action for assessment, adaptation and mitigation of climate change. Although India, as a developing country does not have any mitigation commitments, a sustainable development path is being followed in India through a range of policies and
programmes to mitigate climate change e.g.
i. ensuring energy conservation and improved energy efficiency in various
sectors as well as setting up of Bureau of Energy Efficiency
ii. promoting use of renewable energy
iii. power sector reforms and active renewable energy programme
iv. use of cleaner and lesser carbon intensive fuel for transport
v. fuel switching to cleaner energy
vi. afforestation and conservation of forests
vii. promotion of clean coal technologies
viii. reduction of gas flaring
ix. encouraging Mass Rapid Transport systems
x. environmental quality management for all sectors

(b) if so, the major findings of the report;

(c) the steps Government proposes to take to address the problem raised in the report; and

(d) whether the Government is planning to set up a Climate Information Management System to help integrate baseline information into policy, planning and investment decisions?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) & (b) The World Bank has released a report entitled “Climate change impacts in drought and flood affected areas: case studies in India” sometimes back. The report brings out the need to promote the mainstreaming and integration of climate related risks such as drought and floods in India`s development policies and processes on the basis of case studies of three drought and flood affected states viz., Maharashtra, Orissa and Andhra Pradesh.

The report emphasizes the need to assess climate risks to agriculture and livelihoods; generating better information on current coping and climate risk management strategies; developing and demonstrating the use of a climate modeling framework with a view to identify future climate risks; and developing an adaptation plan that can help improve climate resilience and adaptive capacity.

(c) The Government is seized of the adaptation concerns of vulnerable population in the country. National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) released by the Prime Minister on 30th June 2008 seeks to address such concerns through launching of national missions and other initiatives. NAPCC includes eight
missions out of which five relating to ‘adaptation’ and one relating to ‘strategic
knowledge’ are geared to addressing such challenges.

(d) The scope of work of the National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change and other missions include consideration of issues relating to management of climate information and related matters.

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) if not, the reasons therefor;

(d) whether the Government has given any direction to concerned nodal ministries in this regard; and

(e) if so, the details thereof and steps taken being taken by the Government in this

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a)to(c) The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) released by the
Prime Minister on 30th June 2008 outlines eight Missions namely National Solar
Mission, National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency, National Mission on
Sustainable Habitat, National Water Mission, National Mission for Sustaining
the Himalayan Ecosystem, National Mission for a `Green India`, National
Mission for Sustainable Agriculture and National Mission on Strategic Knowledge
for Climate Change. The Missions are to be institutionalised by the Nodal Ministries who are to prepare the Mission documents and obtain approval of the Prime Minister`s Council on Climate Change.Mission documents are at various
stages of finalisation
(d) & (e) Coordination meetings have been taken at various levels in the Government to finalise the Missions.

BHARTRUHARI MAHTAB

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Government has commissioned any study on climate change/global warming and the damage caused/ effect on the country;

(d) if so, the details thereof;

(e) the details of areas in the country which are expected to face threat of global warming and climate change; and

(f) the details of action plan formulated by the Government to deal with the said problems

MINISTER OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AND MINISTER OF EARTH
SCIENCES(SHRI KAPIL SIBAL)

(a-b) No Sir.It is not possible to attribute occurrence of each and every event of heavy rains and floods to climate change and global warming. However, as per some recent studies carried out by Indian scientists, there has been a significant increasing trend observed in the frequency of heavy rainfall events over the west coast and central parts of India.

(c) Yes Sir.

(d) There have been some studies made in the country which formed part of the first National Communication of India to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) regarding the vulnerability assessment and adaptation to climate change in various sectors such as water resources, agriculture, forests, natural eco-systems, coastal zones, health energy and infrastructure.
Further,the Expert Committee on Impact of Climate Change set-up by the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) in June 2007 assessed the impact of anthropogenic climate
change on six sectors namely water resources, agriculture, Natural Eco-system, Health, Coastal Zone Management and Climate modeling. The status reports of these sectors have been prepared.
(e) The fourth assessment reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
(IPCC) brought out in 2007, provide information on global impacts of projected climate change on various regions of the world. With regard to Asia, the reports brought out the following major areas of climate change impact: i. Glacier melt in the Himalayas is projected to increase.
ii. Freshwater availability in Central, South, East and Southeast Asia particularly in large river basins is projected to decrease.
iii. Coastal areas, especially heavily-populated mega-delta regions in South, East and Southeast Asia, are projected to be at greatest risk.
iv. It is projected that crop yields could increase up to 20% in East and Southeast Asia while it could decrease up to 30% in Central and South Asia by the mid-21st century.
(f) The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was released by the Prime Minister on 30th June 2008.The National Action plan outlines 8-Missions in specific areas of Solar
Energy, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic knowledge for Climate
Change. These Eight National Missions form the core of the National Action Plan, representing multi-pronged, long term and integrated strategies for achieving key goals in the context of climate change.

(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith its functions thereof, State-wise;

(c) the details of assistance provided by the Government for the same;

(d) whether the Government proposes to set up more such Centres in the country including Tamil Nadu;

(e) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and

(f) if not, the reasons therefore?

(b) if so, the details in this regard;

(c) whether any study/research has been undertaken to assess the impact of genetically modified (GM) foods on climate change;

(d) if so, the details in this regard and the action taken by the Government to tackle the problem; and

(e) if not, the reasons therefor?

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the said study has indicated that a four degree increase in temperature can reduce the yield by 10 percent; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by the Government

(c) & (d): The reports available from International Rice Research Institute, Phillippines, indicated that every degree increase in the ambient night temperature result in an increase in sterility by 10%. However, studies conducted at Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI), Cuttack indicated that the sterility of rice plants and consequential decrease in yield is
related to the high temperature during the reproductive stages including grain filling.Efforts are on the course for screening of rice germplasm with an aim to develop varieties which can withstand high temperature at reproductive stage.

(b) if so, the details thereof?

(b) if so, the outcome of the study; and

(c) the action taken by the Government in this regard?

(c, d & e) Prior to the establishment of the above committee,information on various aspects of climate change was developed through a broad based participatory approach involving 131 research teams drawn from research and development Institutions, Universities, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Industry Associations
constituted countrywide for preparation of India’s Initial National Communication to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.A National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was prepared and released by the Prime Minister on 30th June 2008. The
National Action Plan outlines eight missions in specific areas of Solar, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem, Green India,
Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change.The information contained in the status papers referred to above, constitute source material for development of detailed mission documents.

(b) the terms of reference of the Committee which undertook the first study and its findings;

(c) whether any action has been taken by the Government on the basis of the findings of the said Committee;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the names of research organizations which extended assistance to this Committee in the first study?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI NAMO
NARAIN MEENA)

(a) For the preparation of India’s Initial National Communication to United
Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, a wide range of Research and Developmental research Institutions, Universities, Non-Governmental Organisations and
Industry Association countrywide were engaged. The study and development of
information through a broad based participatory approach on impacts and vulnerability to climate change in India.
(b) The study has yielded the current state of knowledge on the vulnerability and impact on various sectors namely water resources, agriculture, forest, ecosystems and human health due to climate change.
(c)& (d) The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was released by the Prime Minister on 30th June 2008.The National Action plan outlines eight Missions in specific areas of Solar, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic knowledge for Climate Change.

SHRI SHISHUPAL NATTHU PATLE

MOHAMMAD TAHIR KHAN

KAILASH NATH SINGH YADAV

(b) if so, the details thereof; and if not, the steps being taken by the Government in the regard; and

(c) the details of the benefits that are likely to accrue as a result thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) to (c) India is a party to the Kyoto Protocol of the United National Framework Convention on climate change which lays down specific obligation of the parties and the measures to taken by them to reduce greenhouse gas emission. As per the Protocol, only Annex I Parties, i.e., industrialized Country Parties are obliged to take quantified emission limitation reduction targets. Developing Countries including India have no such emission reduction targets. However, Government has been following a path of sustainable development through a range of policies and programmes including promotion of environment friendly technologies to protect the environment while
also yielding co-benefits for addressing climate change effectively.

Some of the steps taken by the Government include,inter alia,setting up of the Bureau of
Energy Efficiency and encouraging energy conservation and introduction of energy efficiency labeling, promoting use of renewable energy, power sector reform, use of cleaner and lesser carbon-intensive fuel for transport, fuel flaring, encouraging Mass rapid transport
systems and environmental quality management for all sectors.

Further,Government of India has released the National Action Plan on climate change
(NAPCC) in June 2008, firstly, to adapt to climate and secondly, to further enhance of the
ecological sustainable Habitat, National Water Mission, National Mission for sustaining the
Himalayan Eco-System, National Mission for a green India, National Mission for Sustainable
Agriculture, National Mission of Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change, to address the
concerns of climate change.

(b) if so, the details thereof?

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to address the problem of climate change?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI NAMO
NARAIN MEENA)

(a) & (b) As a part of the Initial National Communication of India to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC); the vulnerability assessment and adaptation studies of climate change have been made in various areas such as water
resources, agriculture, forests, natural eco-systems, coastal zones, health energy and infrastructure .

Further, the Expert Committee on Impact of Climate Change set up by the Ministry of Environment & Forests in June 2007 assessed the impact of climate change on six areas, namely water resources, agriculture, Natural Eco-system, Health, Coastal Zone
Management and Climate modeling. Reports of the Expert Committee in
these areas have been prepared.

(c) The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was released by the Prime Minister on 30th June 2008.The National Action plan outlines eight Missions in specific areas of Solar, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic knowledge for Climate Change.

Besides, a range of policies and programmes have been initiated to address the problem of climate change in the context of sustainable development, such as:

# ensuring energy conservation and improved energy efficiency in various sectors as well as setting up of Bureau of Energy Efficiency
# promoting use of renewable energy
# power sector reforms and active renewable energy programme
# use of cleaner and lesser carbon intensive fuel for transport
# fuel switching to cleaner energy
# afforestation and conservation of forests
# promotion of clean coal technologies
# reduction of gas flaring
# encouraging Mass Rapid Transport systems
# environmental quality management for all sectors

SHRI SURAVARAM SUDHAKAR REDDY

C.K. CHANDRAPPAN

(b) if so, the salient features thereof?

SHRI MADHU GOUD YASKHI

EKNATH MAHADEO GAIKWAD

(a) whether the attention of Government has been drawn to the report released recently by the “International Civil Society Coalition on Climate Change” in India;

(b) if so, the details of the findings thereof;

(c) the response of the Government thereto;

(d) the manner in which it is different from the findings of the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change; and

(e) the steps taken/ being taken by the Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) to (e) A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 521 BY SHRI
MADHU GOUD YASKHI AND SHRI EKNATH M GAIKWAD REGARDING “INTERNATIONAL CIVIL SOCIETY COALITION ON CLIMATE CHANGE”.

(a) to (d) Government is aware of a Report published by a London-based Coalition of 41 Non-governmental/ Civil Society organizations under the caption “Civil Society Report on
Climate Change”, containing results of some studies commissioned by the Coalition. The Report makes, inter-alia, an assessment of the likely climate change impacts on weather related events, health, agriculture and related sectors and also suggests adaptation
measures. The Report concludes that adverse impacts of global warming on agriculture and commercial forestry production can be addressed through market forces. The Report also notes that mortality rates due to extreme weather events shall not increase and
spread of vector borne diseases can be managed with increase of the collective adaptive capacity of the human society. While the Report acknowledges the phenomenon of global warming, it does not treat Climate Change as such a serious threat as is being projected.
This Report is an independent contribution of the ‘Civil Society Coalition on Climate Change’. In formulating its policies and programmes, the Government, takes into account all relevant information available on the subject. On the other hand, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Report is based on assessment of scientific peer – reviewed literature published worldwide on three aspects of Climate Change: Physical Science basis; Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation; and Mitigation. The IPCC Report contains an assessment of observed changes in the climate as well as the future projections based on various developmental scenarios at global/ regional level.The IPCC Report has concluded that warming of climate system is unequivocal. The Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) of the IPCC was adopted in 2007 by all Membergovernments
of IPCC, including India.
(e) India follows a path of sustainable development through a range of policies and programmes which also mitigate climate change and reduce carbon emissions. Besides, India spends over 2 percent of the gross domestic product in development measures which, in addition, will help adaptation to climate variability and change.The PM Council on Climate Change was established in June, 2007 to address Climate Change related issues. The Council has decided that a National Document be prepared on measures to address Climate Change concerns.The Government has also set up an Expert Committee to study the impacts of anthropogenic climate change on India and identify the measures that may be needed in future.

(b) if so, the details of the study report thereof; and

(c) the concrete steps and measures the Government proposes to take to meet the challenge of climate change and global warming?

(a)&( b) Yes, Sir.

A study has been conducted by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation Development on the effect of Global Warming and Climate Change along the coastline for different countries which also mentions two Indian cities namely Kolkata and Mumbai. The study indicates that these coastal cities will be exposed to coastal flooding caused by storm surge and damage from high winds. However, such impact studies are open to several uncertainties, due to
regional model approximations.

(c) Recently, the Government has set up a Prime Minister’s Council on Climate
Change to coordinate national action for assessment, adaptation and mitigation of
climate change. The Ministry of Environment and Forests have also constituted an Expert Committee on Climate Change impacts, which is headed by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Cabinet. The range of policies and programs are being considered to mitigate climate change which include improving energy efficiency and conservation as well as
setting up of Bureau of Energy Efficiency, power sector reforms, promoting hydro and renewable energy, promotion of nuclear energy, promotion of clean coal technology, coal washing and efficient utilization of coal, afforestation and conservation of forests and reduction of gas flaring, use of cleaner and lesser carbon intensive fuel for transport and encouraging Mass Rapid Transport systems.

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps taken to counter the adverse impact of climate change in those cities and towns?

(a) & (b) No, Sir. However, climate parameters over the entire country are being constantly monitored by the India Meteorological Department. The National Communication on Climate Change prepared by the Government addresses vulnerability of various
regions of the country.
(c) The government has initiated several steps to address the problem of climate change. Recently, the Government has set up a Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change to coordinate national action for assessment, adaptation and mitigation of climate change. The Ministry of Environment and Forests have also constituted an Expert Committee on Climate Change impacts, which is headed by the Principal

SHRI ANANDRAO VITHOBA ADSUL

SHIVAJI ADHALRAO PATIL

(b) If so, the details thereof:

(c) whether there is any proposal to provide financial assistance to Gram Sabhas and village Panchayats for training and capacity- building to cope with natural calamities;

(d) If so, the details thereof: and

(e) the time by which the said proposal is likely to be implemented?

STATEMENT REFERRD TO IN REPLY TO LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 428 (a) to (e) BY SHRI ANANDRAO V. ADSUL & SHRI ADHALRAO PATIL SHIVAJIRAO REGARDING “AWARENESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE”

(a) to (e) There is no specific proposal under consideration of the Government to appoint climate managers to create awareness on environmental issues at the village level. However, the Government undertakes several measures to create awareness about envi ronmental is sues which include, inter alia, the following :-

(i) National Environment Awareness Campaign (NEAC) is being implemented v/ith the
objective of creating environmental awareness at the national level through designated Regional Resource Agencies (RRAs) appointed for specific States/Regions of the country.
( i i ) Workshops / conferences / seminars are organised with the support from the Ministry of Environment & Forests on the issue of environment & climate change and publications are brought out.
( i i i ) Eco-clubs are set up wi th the assistance of the Ministry of Environment & Forests
in schools throughout the country-
( i v) A project for Strengthening of Environmental Education in School System (Stress) is being implemented.
(v) Various events are organised / observed for creating awareness regarding preservation
and conservation of the environment e.g. World Environment Day, Earth Day, and Ozone Day etc.

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps being taken by the Government to check it?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) & (b) Although Geological Survey of India (GSI) has reported recession in the Gangotri glacier at a rate of 18.80 m/year during 1935-1996 period,there are no specific studies undertaken to establish a correlation between the climate change and environmental pollution and the glacial changes in the region around the pilgrimages of Gangotri,Yamunotri and Badrinath Dhams.

(c) A sustainable development path is being followed through a range of policies and programmes to mitigate climate change and reduce carbon emissions. Some of the steps taken by the Government include interalia-setting up of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency and encouraging energy conservation and introduction of energy efficiency labeling, promoting use of renewable energy, carrying out power sector reforms and active renewable energy
programme, use of cleaner and lesser carbon intensive fuel for transport, fuel switching to cleaner energy, afforestation and conservation of forests, promotion of clean coal technologies, reduction of gas flaring, encouraging Mass Rapid Transport systems and environmental quality management for all sectors.

The National Environment Policy 2006 of Ministry of Environment & Forests interalia addresses the issue of global warming. The Government has also set up an “Expert Committee on Impacts of Climate Change” in May 2007 to study the impacts of anthropogenic climate change on India and to identify the measures that may be needed to address vulnerability to anthropogenic climate change impacts.

A high level coordination committee chaired by Hon’ble Prime Minister
called “Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change to coordinate National action for assessment,adaptation and mitigation of climate change” was
constituted on 6th June 2007. In the meeting held on 13th July 2007, the
council, interalia decided to prepare and finalise ‘India’s Climate Change Action Programme’.

(b) if so, whether any research has been undertaken so far to tackle this problem;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) if not, the reasons therefor; and

(e) the steps taken /proposed to be taken by the Government to tackle this problem?

(b) If so, the details of its findings;

(c) whether the Government has made any study of the Report for its implementations in the country;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the remedial measures taken or proposed to be taken to contain the consequences of the expected climatic changes in the country?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) to (e) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in the answer to Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1791, to be answered on 12.03.08 by Shri Chandrakant Khaire and Shri Naveen Jindal.

(a) to (e) The Government is aware of the reports of Inter Governmental Panel
on Climate Change (IPCC) and is seized of the concerns. The IPCC has brought
out the Fourth assessment report containing the information on the
science of climate change, Impacts,Adaptation and Vulnerability to Climate Change, mitigation of climate change. The report provides global
observed changes in the climate parameters and also contains future
projections of climate change during upto end of 21st century. According to
the report, the global atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide has
increased from a pre industrial value of about 280 ppm to 379 ppm in 2005. The
projected temperature increase by the end of this century is likely to be in the
range 2 to 4.5oC with a best estimate of about 3oC.

The report provides global and regional level impacts – both observed and
projected for various physical and biological systems besides various sectors of economy.The observational evidence from all continents and most oceans shows that many natural systems are being affected by regional climate changes, particularly temperature increases and by 2050s, annual average
river runoff and water availability are projected to increase by 10-40% at high
latitudes and in some wet tropical areas, and decrease by 10-30% over some dry
regions at mid-latitudes and in the dry tropics, some of which are presently
water stressed areas. Further, heavy precipitation events, very likely to
increase in frequency, will augment flood risk. The reports provides impacts
on Ecosystems, Food, Fibre and Forest products, Coastal systems and low-lying
areas, Industry, Settlement and Society and Health.

The report further provides global level assessment of new literature on
scientific, technological, environmental, economic and social aspects of climate
change after 2002.It provides global trends of greenhouse gas emissions;
mitigation in short and medium term (until 2030); mitigation in long term
(after 2030); policies, measures and instruments to mitigate climate change;
sustainable development and climate change mitigation and gaps in
knowledge. The report does not provide country specific information and
discusses the various issues at global level.

A range of under mentioned policies, programmes and initiatives address the
concerns of projected climate change:
a) energy conservation and improvedenergy efficiency in various sectors as
well as setting up of Bureau of EnergyEfficiency
b) promoting use of renewable energy
c) power sector reforms and active renewable energy programme
d) use of cleaner and lesser carbon intensive fuel for transport
e) fuel switching to cleaner energy
f) afforestation and conservation of forests
g) promotion of clean coal technologies
h) reduction of gas flaring
i) encouraging Mass Rapid Transport systems
j) environmental quality management for all sectors
The Government has set up “Expert Committee on Impacts of Climate
Change”.The Terms of Reference of the Committee are to study the impacts of
anthropogenic climate change on India & to identify the measures that we may
have to take in the future in relation to addressing vulnerability to anthropogenic climate change impacts and any other matter relevant to these.

A coordination committee chaired by Hon’ble Prime Minister called “Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change to coordinate national action for assessment,adaptation and mitigation of climate change” was constituted on 6th
June 2007 to evolve a coordinated response to issues relating to climate change at the national level and to provide oversight for formulation of action plans in the area of assessment, adaptation and mitigation of climate
change.

(b) If so, the details thereof alongwith the details of the latest communication to the UNFCC?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)
(a) & (b) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.
Statement Referred to in respect of Lok Sabha Starred Question no. 182 Due for
reply on 12.3.2008 on United Nations Framework on Climate Change by Dr.
R. SENTHIL

(a) The Government of India reports information relating to greenhouse gas
emissions and also about the steps taken to address the issues of climate change
to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) secretariat in accordance with the provisions of the Convention and the decisions of the Conference of Parties to UNFCCC. The periodicity, time schedule and the contents of information is decided by the Conference of Parties (COP) to the
UNFCCC.

(b) Towards fulfillment of its reporting obligations, India submitted its First
National Communication to the UNFCCC on June 22, 2004.The Communication provided information On

(i) India`s emissions of greenhouse gases of anthropogenic origin at 1994 level which were 1228 MT of carbon dioxide equivalent;

(ii) Vulnerability assessment of key sectors such as agriculture, forestry,
water resources, health, infrastructure, industry, natural ecosystems and coastal
zones to projected climate change for the period 2050s and 2080s;

(iii)Programmes related to sustainable development; research and systematic
observations; and

(iv) Constraints and gaps, and related financial, technical and capacity needs
in the area of climate change. The Second National Communication to the
UNFCCC is due for submission in the year 2011.

SHRI SURAVARAM SUDHAKAR REDDY

C.K. CHANDRAPPAN

(b) if so, the details of the discussions held and the outcome thereof; and

(c) the likely impact of the decisions of the conference on India?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a)to(c): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 28 BY SHRI SURAVARAM SUDHAKAR REDDY & SHRI C.K. CHANRAPPAN DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.2.2008, REGARDING “BALI
CONFERENCE ON CLIMATE CHANGE”.

(a)to(c) The thirteenth Conference of Parties (COP-13) to the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the third Meeting of
Parties (MOP-3) to Kyoto Protocol was held in Bali in December 2007. The
principal outcome of the Bali conference was to launch a comprehensive process called Bali Action Plan (BAP) that would enable the full, effective and sustained
implementation of the UNFCCC through long-term cooperative action, now, up to and beyond 2012. It is expected that an agreed outcome would be reached and a decision adopted regarding BAP, at the fifteenth Conference of Parties (COP-15) to be held in December 2009.

The Conference of Parties serving as Meeting of Parties at Bali also took crucial decisions in respect of the Kyoto Protocol, the Adhoc Working Group on further commitments of developed countries (beyond 2012) finally established a deadline of 2009 for the completion of its work and forwarding to COP-15 for a decision, its recommendations on quantified emissions limitation and reduction commitments of Annex I Parties (developed countries).

Several other significant decisions were also reached at Bali.These include
operationalization of the Adaptation Fund to provide assistance to developing countries to adapt to climate change; agreement on guidance for the
further implementation and improvement of the Clean Development
Mechanism; policy approaches and positive incentives on issues relating to
reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing
countries and the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and
enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries; “transfer of
technologies”, including licenses to support the access to and transfer of low
carbon technologies, and know how.It is expected that the decisions taken at
Bali would enhance the implementation of the UNFCCC and as a responsible
country, India will engage constructively in these negotiations.

SHRI SHIVAJI ADHALRAO PATIL

ANANDRAO VITHOBA ADSUL

S. AJAYA KUMAR

RAVI PRAKASH VERMA

(b) if so, the details of the facts of the matter reported therein;

(c) whether the Government had decided to link all academic institutions that work on climate change on a National Knowledge Net and also identify key knowledge institutions that become centers of excellence in climate change related research;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) whether the Government is also considering to bring private sector on board to adhere to the use of clean technology; and

(f) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a)to(f) In the first meeting of the Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change
held on 13th July 2007 interalia it was decided that a National Action Plan on
Climate Change will be prepared. The information regarding others is being
collected and will be laid on the Table of the House.

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether any meeting of the Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change was held recently;

(d) if so, the details thereof;

(e) whether any major programme has been taken/proposed to be taken for afforestation programme in view of climate change

MINSTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY FOR PLANNING (SHRI M. V. RAJASEKHARAN)

(a) & (b): In the first meeting of the Prime Minister’s Council on Climate
Change held on 13th July, 2007, various decisions were identified for follow up. Major decisions were preparation of National Document compiling action
taken by India for addressing the challenge of climate change and the
action that it proposes to take, incorporate climate change – related
research agenda, strengthening institutional capacity and other areas of
sectoral action to be built into the Eleventh Plan and promotion of Clean
Development Mechanism (CDM) opportunities for the public sector
entities who are currently not utilizing/under-utilising the facility, etc.

(c) & (d): Yes Sir. As stated above, the first meeting of the PM’s Council on
Climate Change was held on 13th July, 2007 and the second meeting was held
on 26th November, 2007. While the major decisions taken in the first
meeting have already been highlighted in paras – a) and b) above, the minutes
of the second meeting are awaited from the Prime Minister’s Office.

(e) & (f): In the first meeting of the said Council, it was decided that a major
afforestation programme called ‘Green India’ for greening 6 million hectares of
degraded land may be finalized for Cabinet clearance which is under
consideration of the Government

(b) whether the Government proposes to bring any device for reducing the effect of climate change;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether the Government proposes to formulate any long term scheme for the rehabilitation of the people dependent on the forests; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) to (e) Preliminary assessment of impacts of projected climate change on
forest ecosystem undertaken for the preparation of India’s Initial National
Communication to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change during 2001-2004, indicates shifts in forest boundaries, changes in
species composition (forest types), changes in net productivity, loss of
biodiversity, forests die back in the transient phase and adverse socio
economic implications. More comprehensive research and in depth
studies are required to validate these preliminary results. Several existing
policies and schemes of the Government seek to address the similar impacts of
current climate variability.

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the action taken/proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard

(a) to (c): Climate Change Impact Assessment Studies specifically on wetland areas have not been carried out.

However, due to global warming glaciers are receding and because of which there is change in water level of high altitude wetlands which ultimately effects down stream areas. Though glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF)
have been reported in Nepal and Bhutan, no such incidents have been
reported from India. For conservation of wetlands, Government have initiated a
number of programmes, which include preparation of management action plans
for survey and demarcation, catchment area treatment, desiltation, weed control, fisheries development, community participation, water management, public
awareness and pollution abatement.

(b) if so, the details thereof and the main decisions taken in the meeting;

(c) whether the Government has taken any steps to contain the adverse effects of climate change on India; and

(d) if so, the help and assistance being sought from UN in meeting the climate change effects?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)
(a) & (b) A day long High-Level event “The Future in our Hands: Addressing the Leadership Challenge of Climate Change” was convened on 24 September 2007 by the United Nations Secretary-General. The Indian delegation was led by Shri
P.Chidambaram, Hon’ble Finance Minister. Hon’ble Finance Minister informed the world leaders that India’s per capita consumption of energy and emission of CO2 are amongst the lowest in the World. He also highlighted the efforts being make by India supportive of sustainable and clean development.

During the deliberations, the World Leaders accepted that climate change is happening largely by human activity and additional resources, including
transfer of clean technologies, are required to be provided to Developing
Countries for adaptation, mitigations and sustainable development. It was
also mentioned that Climate Change should be dealt based on the principle of
common but differentiated responsibilities, and any action
requirement has to be commensurate to the respective capabilities. It was also
emphasised that the only forum where the issue of Climate Change can be
decided upon is the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC). A need was also felt to strengthen the Clean Development Mechanism of Kyoto Protocol. The World Leaders also hoped that intense negotiations would be held in the Conference of Parties to UNFCCC, to be held in December 2007 in Bali, Indonesia, for a post 2012 agreement.

(c) & (d): India is engaged in the International Climate Change Regime, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Kyoto Protocol, as also various partnerships with other countries under the
UNFCCC. India has been pressing hard that as per the requirements of Kyoto
Protocol the Annex-I developed countries should take deeper and longer
commitments for the second phase of Kyoto Protocol. Further, India is actively participating in the Climate Change dialogue and at the Adhoc Working Group discussions coordinated by the UNFCCC Secretariat. In these negotiations, India has been pressing that ‘Adaptation Fund’ under the Kyoto Protocol should be operationalised at the earliest.

While India does not have any Green House Gases (GHG) abatement commitments under the Kyoto Protocol, nevertheless a range of policies and
programs help mitigate climate change.

These include:
1) Improving energy efficiency & conservation as well setting up of Bureau of Energy Efficiency
2) Power sector reforms
3) Promoting hydro and renewable energy
4) Promotion of clean coal technologies
5) Coal washing & efficient utilization of coal
6) Afforestation and conservation of forests
7) Reduction of gas flaring
8) Use of cleaner and lesser carbon intensive fuel for transport
9) Encouraging Mass Rapid Transport systems
10) Environmental quality management Besides, India spends every year over 2
percent of the GDP in development measures with strong adaptation content.
The Government has set up “Expert Committee on Impacts of Climate
Change”. The Terms of Reference of the proposed Committee are:
(a) To study the impacts of anthropogenic climate change on India.
(b) To identify the measures that we may have to take in the future in
relation to addressing vulnerability to anthropogenic climate change impacts.
(c) Any other matter relevant to (a) and
(b) above.

Further, a Council on Climate Change, chaired by Prime Minister, has been set
up. This Council shall coordinate national action for assessment,
adaptation and mitigation of climate change. The focus of the Committee
would be to:

i. Evolve a coordinated response to issues relating to climate change at the
national level;
ii. Provide oversight for formulation of action plans in the area of assessment,
adaptation and mitigation of climate change;
iii. Periodically monitor key policy decisions.