Q. India has been a strong supporter for the principle of Common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR) in international climate negotiations. Which of the following best describes the reason for India to be a strong supporter of CBDR?
1.India holds the view that all nations bear an equal obligation to tackle worldwide environmental challenges, and it considers the principle of CBDR to be an effective means of achieving this goal.
2.The concept of CBDR is seen as a way for developing nations like India to share less of the responsibility for their involvement in global environmental issues.
3.India argues under CBDR, that developed countries should cut more pollution and help developing countries, because they have polluted more and have the resources to fight climate change..
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Explanation –
Statements 1 and 2 are incorrect. India does believe in the principle of CBDR, but it does not believe that all nations bear an equal obligation to tackle worldwide environmental challenges. India argues that developed countries have a greater responsibility to reduce their emissions because they have polluted more in the past and have more resources to fight climate change.
The principle of CBDR is not about developing nations sharing less responsibility for their involvement in global environmental issues. It is about recognizing that developed and developing nations have different levels of responsibility, based on their level of development and contribution to the problem.
Developed countries have a greater responsibility to reduce their emissions because they have polluted more in the past and have more resources to fight climate change. Developing countries, on the other hand, have a right to develop their economies without harming the environment. However, they also have a responsibility to take steps to reduce their emissions, within their means.
Statement 3 is correct. India believes that developed countries have a greater responsibility to reduce their emissions because they have polluted more in the past and have more resources to fight climate change. India also argues that developed countries should provide financial and technological assistance to developing countries to help them reduce their emissions.
The principle of CBDR is essential for achieving sustainable development and for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement. It is also fair and equitable, as it takes into account the different capabilities of countries.
Source: ForumIAS
