Cooperation between India and France on sustainability

Source: The post cooperation between India and France on sustainability has been created, based on the article “France: India’s steady partner in green growth” published in “The Hindu” on 3rd July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- International relations- Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Context: The article discusses the enhanced cooperation between India and France on sustainability. It highlights joint projects like metro systems and wildlife protection, emphasizing the French Development Agency’s significant role in India’s climate and development initiatives, benefiting both people and the planet.

For detailed information on India and France relations read this article here

What is the Indo-French Horizon 2047 Roadmap?

1. Partnership for the Planet: Elevated as one of the three pillars by President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 14, 2023.
2. Focus Areas: Climate change, biodiversity, health, and environment.
3. Mutual Goals:

Socioeconomic development and environmental protection.

Bridging North-South divides.

Finding sustainable solutions for green transitions.

4. Joint Initiatives: Includes the International Solar Alliance.
5. These projects are supported by the French Development Agency (AFD).

What role does the French Development Agency (AFD) play?

1. Operational Arm: AFD operates as the action-driven arm of France’s international partnership strategy.
2. Project Engagement: Engaged in over 4,200 projects across more than 150 countries.
3. Financial Commitment: In the last year, AFD approved more than 1,000 new projects worth €13.5 billion.
4. Focus in India:
5. a) Since 2008, AFD has committed over €4 billion to nearly 100 projects.
6. b) Energy and Urban Development: Includes funding for the Pune and Nagpur metro rails, enhancing urban mobility and reducing emissions.
7. c) Biodiversity and Resilience: Projects like increasing Rajasthan’s forest cover to improve wildlife habitats and disaster risk management in Himachal Pradesh.
8. d) Climate Initiatives: In 2023, AFD approved €400 million for projects like urban water management in 20 cities and solid waste management in 18 cities, under India’s circular economy program (CITIIS).
9. e) Focus on Equality: 83% of AFD’s portfolio supports climate action, with 63% addressing gender equality, demonstrating a commitment to balanced, inclusive development.

How Does the Indo-French Partnership Support the Private Sector?

1. Proparco’s Role: The private sector arm of AFD supports impactful private projects.
2. Investment in Agriculture: Proparco invested €11.2 million in Sahyadri, aiding 15,000 farmers to reduce losses and improve yields.
3. Healthcare Investment: In 2023, Proparco approved a €33 million equity investment in Quadria, focusing on affordable healthcare in underserved regions.
4. Sustainable Projects: Investments target sustainable and inclusive development, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
5. Economic Impact: These projects highlight the private sector’s role in fostering economic growth and social equity through strategic investments.

What are the future directions of this partnership?

1. Expansion to Indo-Pacific: The partnership includes an Indo-Pacific dimension, already evident in initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Parks Partnership, which involves multiple partners for biodiversity protection.
2. Green Technology Fund: A new joint fund is planned to help scale up green technologies being developed in the region, enhancing sustainability efforts.
3. Year of Innovation: The Indo-French Year of Innovation in 2026 is set to highlight innovative solutions that integrate social inclusion and sustainability.
4. Continuous Collaboration: The partnership is committed to ongoing projects that support sustainable development and environmental conservation, ensuring long-term benefits for both nations.

Question for practice:

Examine how the French Development Agency (AFD) supports sustainable development in India.